
Class 
Book. 



E" "S ^> 6 



E ' ^__ 

3 6~C ~ 

/ /> / INAUGURATION 



•r THE 



PEEET STATUE, 

AT CLETELAXD, 

ox THE TEXTS OF SEPTEMBER, 18G0; 

IXCLrDIXG A 

HISTORY OF THE BATTLE OF LAKE ERIE, 

BY GEOEOE BAXCT^OFT: 

ADDRESSES AND OTHER PROCEEDINGS, 

WITH A SKETCH OF 

WILLIAM WALCUTT 

THE SCULPTOR. 



PUBLISHED EY DTRECTIOX OF THE CITY COUXCIL 



C L E V E L A X D , . 

FAIRBANKS. BENEDICT & CO., PRINTERS, HERALD OFFICE, 
1 8G 1. 



INAUGURATION 



OF THE 



PEEET STATUE, 

AT CLEYELAi^D, 

OX THE TEXTH OF SEPTEMBER, 1860;. 

IXCLUDIXa THE 

ADDRESSES AND OTHER PROCEEDINGS, 

WITH A SKETCH OF 

WILLIAM WALOUTT 

THE SCULPTOR. 



PUBLISHED BY DIRECTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL. 



CLEVELAXD, 0. 

FAIEBAXKS, BENEDICT & CO., PRINTEES, HERALD OFFICE. 
186 1. 



E3fC 
I 4 (it 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1861, by 

FAIKBANKS, BENEDICT & CO., 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court, for the Northern District of Ohio. 



Sewee ttokBo^'^* 



NOTE. 

The Historical Sketch of the Inanguratior, and its leading inci- 
dents, embodied in the following pages, were clipped from the 
columns of the public prints, and, for the most part, from the 
" Cleveland Herald. " Only such slight corrections and additions 
liave been made as seemed necessary in order to present the 
details in their proper connection. " " '" 

Cleveland, December 31, 1860. 



PRELIMINARY STATEMENT. 



The project of er-ectmg a stated to Coiimodoee Peeey in the 
public Park of the city of Ckveland, originated with Hox. Har- 
vey Rice, then a member of the City Council, who in June 1857, 
introduced into the Council a set of resolutions relative to that 
subject, by which a sel-ect committee of five, was empowered to 
contract fbr the erection of a monument in the public Park of the 
city, to C0MMODOE.E P^ERRY, in commemoration of his heroic ser- 
vices in achieving the victory on Lake Eri-e in the year 1813 ; 
the monument to be surmounted with a life-like statue of the 
hero, cut in marble ; and in ordei' to meet the expense, the com- 
mittee was authorized to solicit subscriptions from the citizens 
of Cleveland, and apply the avails inpayment of the monument. 
These resolutions were unanimously adopted by the City Council ; 
whereupon the President appointed Harvey Rice, 0. M, Oviatt, 
J. M CoFFixEERRY, J-. KiE^KPATEics and C. D, Williams, that 
committee ; Harvey Rice, as chairman. 

On the 14th of October, 1857, the committee contracted with 
T. Jo^fES & Sons, of Cleveland, who are proprietors of marble 
works, to erect the proposed monument. By the terms of this 
contract T. Jones & Sons agreed to jorovide all the materials and 
to erect the monument, surmounted with the statue of Perry in 
the best style of art, subject to the approval of the committee; 
and to accomplish the work ready for the inauguration by the 
10th of September, 1860, for the sum of six thousand dollars; for 
the payment of which they agreed to rely on the voluntary sub- 



seriptions of tlie citizens of Cleveland, thereafter to be obtained 
by the solicitation of the committee and by themselves, taking 
the risk of obtaining the required amount on themselves. 

The contractors resolved to spare no effort or expense on their 
part, to procure the work undertaken by them, to be executed in 
a manner equal to anything of the kind ever done in the 
United States. Influenced by this laudable desire, and by a 
spirit of patriotism and liberality highly honorable to them as 
men and citizens, they commenced at once a correspondence 
with several of the celebrated sculptors resident in this country 
and in foreign countries, with a view to ascertain the cost, and to 
secure the services of a competent sculptor to execute the statue 
of Peeey, in a style worthy of his name and memory. Hieam 
PowEES, the distinguished American sculptor, resident in Italy, 
replied to the contractors as follows : 

"Florence, Nov. 28th, 1858. 

"Messrs. T. Jones & Sons, Cleveland, O. — Gentlemen: I have 
just received your kind letter on the subject of a monument to Commo- 
dore Perry, to be erected at Cleveland ; and I thank you much for 
having thought of me in regard to it. 

You desire to know if I would undertake the execution of the statue 
of Commodore Perry, which is to be placed on the monument, and 
what would be the probable expense of it, delivered in America : also, 
what I think the size should be, and how long it would require to get it 
ready. 

It is hardly possible to answer these questions in a satisfactory man- 
ner, without knowing more upon the subject— the plan and size of the 
monument — the amount proposed to be expended upon it — and the ma- 
terial, whether bronze or marble. But I will say as much as the limited 
information of your present letter will allow. In expectation of seeing 
me soon, you have naturally left out some important particulars. 

First, then. In regard to time, I could have tlie statue finished and 
delivered in New York in season to reach you before September, 1860, 
but not much sooner. 

Secondly. If it should be decided to make the statue of bronze and 
eight feet high, I should require the same amount for it, delivered in New 
York, that I have already received for my statue of Webster, of that size 
and material, viz, $12,000. In marble the expense would be something 
more, and then the difficulty about marble would be, the time required 
to execute the statue ; I could hardly have it done in due season. 

That you could obtain the statue on much lower terms than the above, 
I am ({uite sure. I have only stated the value of my time and the mate- 



rials. The pains I take, and my large expenses, make it necessary, that 
I should charge a full equivalent, however much I may desire the honor 
of perpetuating in bronze or marble, the form of our glorious Perry. 

If I have said enough to form the basis for a satisfactory arrangement, 
it would be well to procure the materials for the likeness, features and 
dress, soon as possible. 

My return home was prevented by a telegraphic despatch, stating that 
my commission for the government was in a fair way of arrangement. — 
With sincere respect. I am, truly yours, 

H. POWERS. 

In relation to the same matter, Mr. Palmer, the eminent 
sculptor of Albany, N. Y., addressed to the contractors the fol- 
lowing letter: 

Albany, K Y., Nov. 4th, 1858. 

T. Jones & Sons. — Gentlemen : Your favor of the 27th ult. came in 
due time, but illness has prevented an earlier reply. 

If I engage to execute the statue of Perry my terms will be as follows, 
viz: — For the Statue complete, (not including the cost of the marble in 
the rough) $6,000; one half, $3,000, to be paid on the completion of the 
model in plaster. I would suggest that the Statue be seven feet in hight, 
as it will then appear scarcely life-size, when in its elevated position. 

Very truly yours, 

E. D. PALMER. 

The following was received from Mr. Ball, of Boston, who has 
earned an enviable reputation as a sculptor : 

Boston, March 25, 1859. 

T. Jones & Sons — Dear Sirs : Your favor of the 21st I have duly re- 
ceived. I am afraid we shall not be able to come to terms in regard to 
the Perry monument, for the reason that they do not allow you enough 
for the work. You ought to receive $6,000 for the Statue alone, to be 
done as soon as it should be. They would or should not be satisfied 
with anything less than a first rate work of art, and such a work I could 
not engage to furnish — the Statue finished in marble — for less than 
$5,000 ; or the model in plaster for less than $2,000 ; that would leave 
you comparatively nothing for your part of the monument. I must do 
my best with anything I undertake, as that is none too good. It might 
be done for a less sum than I have mentioned, but could it be done weirr* 

If you should have enough contributed to afford to pay the sum men- 
tioned, and would like to have me make the Statue, I should be most 
happy to do it. 



8 

Please let me know your decision, whatever it may be, and also what 
material you liave to make the likeness from. I should like to see the 
lithograph of the monument. 

With many thanks for your politeness, 

I am, veiy truly, yours, 

T. BALL. 

From the information thus derived from experienced sculp- 
tors, T. JoXES & Sons became satisfied that they had taken the 
contract for the erection of the monument at too low a figure, 
but nevertheless were determined to iullill the engagement on 
their part. They finally had the good fortune to secure the 
services of "William Walcutt to design and model the Statue. 
As a sculptor of busts, Mr. Walcutt had already acquired a 
wide reputation. He was influenced more by a love of art than 
by pecuniary considerations,, in undertaking to execute the Sta- 
tue of Perry. The block of marble from which the Statue is 
cut was procured by T. Jokes & Sons, from Carrara, Italv, and 
shipped in the rough to Cleveland: and in their studio at Cleve- 
land the entire work of cutting the Statue in accordance with 
the model was done. The fact is worthy of notice that this is 
the first attempt in the Western States which has ever been 
made, to accomplish a work of this character. 

After Mr. AValcutt had produced his design of the Statue, 
the original plan of the monument, as at hrst proposed, was dis- 
carded, and the design drawn by Mr. W'alcutt adopted, wdiich 
was regarded by the Committee as a decided improvement, 
though its adoption had the effect to increase the cost of the 
monument at least §2,000, to which the contractors assented ; 
and it is for this reason that the contract was so modified as 
to allow the contractors the right to solicit subscriptions to 
that amount in addition to the original contract price, making 
the entire cost of the monument, without the proposed side fig- 
ures, $8,000. This change of plan required the pedestal to be 
constructed of Rhode Island granite, twelve feet in hight, and 
the Statue to be cut in Italian marble, eight feet and two inches 
in hight, so as to appear life-size to the eye, when placed on the 
pedestal, and making the entire hight of the monument, includ- 
ing the base, twenty-five feet. 

In addition to this the Boat Scene, when Perry passed to the 



Niagara, was to be represented in alto relievo^ on the front of 
tlie monument. And we will venture to say that a more chaste 
and beautiful monument was never erected, in any country. We. 
hope yet to see the artist's "Sailor Boy" and "Midshipman," ad- 
ded, as side figures to the monument, cut in marble, and occupy- 
ing, in a half sitting posture, the projections designed for them, 
and this, we have no doubt, will soon be accomplished. 

T. JoxES & Sons feel confident that their efforts t-o gratify 
the public taste'^ and contribute something towards paying a 
national debt of gratitude, will be rightly appreciated, as they 
were influenced more by a spirit of patriotism than by any pe- 
cuniary motive, in undertaking the enterprize. 

When they shall have received the full sum of 88,000, they 
will not realize more than will compensate them and the artist, 
for their daily labor at ordinary rates ; but their success is a 
sufficient guaranty, that works of this character can be executed 
in the West, as well as in the Eastern States, and that, too, in a 
manner which has not been excelled. And we therefore pre- 
dict that both the artist and contractors for what they have al- 
ready done, will find themselves yet liberally rewarded in the 
future requisitions which will be made upon their skill in this 
department of art. 

The fact that the statue i= a life likeness of Commodore Peeey 
cannot be doubted. Dr. U. Parsons, of Pihode Island, who 
was Surg-2on in the service of Perry's flag ship, speaks of this 
fact in one of his letters as follows : 

Provide^'CE, Feb. 4th, 1860, 

"Messrs. Jo^vES & So^'s — Gentlemen : I have received the elegant 
figure of Pekry (photograph) from Mr. Walcutt's studio, for which I 
feel very gratefal. As a whole I think it excellent, and the artist has 
done himself great credit. The general form of the head is perfect ; the 
whole figure good, spirited and appropriate. 

Yours, very truly, 

USHER PAPSOXa 

Dr. East^san, of Seville, Ohio, who was assistant Surgeon in 
dressing the wounded brought into port at Erie after the battle, 
and who often saw Perry, addressed the following letter to Mr, 
AValcutt ; 



10 

Seville, O., Aug. 12tli, 1860. 

Mr. TTalcutt — Dear Sir: Please accept my thanks for your kind in- 
Titation, wliile in Cleveland, on Thursday last, to view your Statue of 
Commodore Perry. Although forty-seven years have intervened, I 
have a vivid recollection of the looks of the Commodore, and can truly 
say that, so far as the appearance of a man can be transferred to mar- 
ble, your Statue is correct and truthful in form, feature and proportion ; 
so much so that any one who has ever seen Oliver Haz.lrd Perry, in 
Xaval costume, would, at first view, recognize the striking resemblance, 
and acknowledge its identity with the hero of Lake Erie. 

Yours, very respectfully, 

NATHANIEL EASTMAN. 

Captain Festus Cone, of Moscow, N. Y., w\a3 the head car- 
penter under Perey, in building the war vessels at Erie, in 
1813, and became familiarly acquainted with him. Capt. Coxe 
visited Cleveland in July last, called at Walcutt's studio, to 
see the Perry Statue, and the moment he beheld it, he esiclaim- 
ed: "That's Perry all over." This is an unsophisticated criti- 
cism which may be regarded as highly complimentary to the 
artist. 



RESOLUTIONS, INVITATIONS, LETTERS, ETC, 



By the terms of tlie contract with. T. Jones & Sons for the 
erection of the Perry Monument, it was contemplated that the 
work should be accomplished in time for the inauguration of the 
Statue on the lOth of September. 1860, that being the 47th an- 
niversary of Perry's Victory on Lake Erie. The Committee 
therefore issued their special invitations in reference to that day; 
and by authority of a resolution adopted by the City Council, in 
January, 1860, addressed an invitation to the Governor and 
Staff, State Officers and Military, Members of the Legislature, 
and other distinguished citizens of Rhode Island, to attend the 
Inauguration, tendering them the hospitalities of the city, ac- 
companied with the request that his Excellency communicate 
the same to the Legislature, then in session, which was done ; 
and, in reply to which the Legislature, at its next May session, 
passed the following resolutions : 

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantation. 

:\[ay Session, A. D., 1860 : 

To the HonorabU General Assembly^ at their May Session^ A. Z?,, 1860: 
The Joint Special Committee, to whom was referred the communica- 
cation of Harvey Rice, J. Kirkpatrick, J. M. Coffinberry, O. M. 
OviATT and Charles D. Willlams, Esq.'s, "the Special Committee hav- 
ing iu charge the erection of the Perry Statue, at Cleveland, Ohio," re- 
commend, as their Report, the passage of the subjoined resolutions: 

Bssohecl That this General Assembly has received with patriotic sen- 
sibility the announcement of the Governor, communicating the invita- 
tion of the "Special Committee, having in charge the erection of the 



12 

Perry Statue at Cleveland,'" in our sister Stat« of Oliio, inviting liis Ex- 
cellency, the Governor, and Staff, our State officers, the members of the 
Legislature of this State, the Quartermaster General, the Ajudtant Gen- 
eral, and Military Companies of Rhode Island, to attend, as the guests of 
said city, on the IGth of September, 1860, the Inauguration at Cleveland, 
of the Statue of our late fellow citizen, Commodore Oliver Hazakb 
Pkrry, whGse sacred remains repose in our soil, and whose heroic vir- 
tues, and great naval achievements on Lake Erie, are held in perpetual 
memory by the people of Rhode Island. 

Besolwd^ That the General Assembly and people of Rhode Island re- 
cognize in this new memorial proposed to be erected by the citizens of 
the West to the character, genius and patriotic exertions of a citizen of 
the East, a fresh pledge of that mutual devotion to the glory of a com- 
mon country, which was ever cherished by the fathers of the Republic 
as the surest bond of perpetuating the indissoluble union of these States. 

Resolved^ that the said invitation be and the same is hereby accepted, 
as well in behalf of His E xcellency the Governor and Staff, our General 
State Officers, the Quartermaster General and Adjutant General, as on 
the part of the members of the General Assembly. 

Resolved^ That the Secretary of State be and is hereby requested to 
communicate a copy of these resolutions to the gentlemen composing the 
aforesaid committee at Cleveland, Ohio, and also to his Honor the Mayot- 
of said city of Cleveland. 

I certify the foregoing to be a true copy; in testimonj^ whereof I have 
hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the State of Rhode Island, 
this fifth day of June, A.D. 1860. 

JOHN R BARTLETT, 

[l. s.] Secretary of Stata. 



List of lineal descendents of Com. Ferry, iJie Hero of Lake Erie. 

Oliver Hazard Perry, son of Com. Perry, of Andover, 
Mass.; his children — Annie Maria, Julia Randolph, Eliza- 
beth Champlin, William Gorham, Oliver Hazae.d. Eliz- 
abeth Mason Perry, daughter of Com. Perry, and now the 
wife of Dr. Francis Vinton, New York ; her children — Fran- 
cis Vinton, Elizabeth Mason Vinton, Oliver Perry Vinton, 
Arthur Dudley Vinton, Frederick Betts Vinton, Gertrude 
Vinton. Christopher Grant Perry, deceased, son of Com. 
Perry, Newport, R. I.; his children — Margaret Mason, Oli- 
ver Hazard, Fannie Sargent, Thomas Sargent. 



13 

Names of some of the collato^al Relatives of Cor)iirbodore Perry, 
with Letters and extracts from Letters received hy the Chairman 
of the Perry Monument CoQnmittee, in reply to special invitations 
extended to them, to attend the inauguration on the \Oth Septem- 
ber, at Cleveland. 

^Irs. Commodore M. C. Peeuy and daughter, New York ; 
Capt. Stephen Champlin, Buffalo, N. Y.; Mrs. August Bel- 
mont, New York ; Mr. and Mrs. Hone, Morristown, New Jer- 
sey ; ]\Cr. KoEERT S. E.ODGEES, Havre de Grace, Maryland ; Mr. 
ajid ]\Irs. Lieut. 0. K P. Rodgees, Morristown, N. J.; Mr. and 
Mrs. Lieut. Gede^ge. Rodgers, and ]\Ii\ George Rodgees, N. Y.; 
Mrs. Nathaniel Perry, New London, Ct.; Mrs. Grant Perry, 
and Mr. Oliver H. Perry, Jr., Newport R. I.; Mrs. Alexan- 
der Perry, and James Perry, Bristol, R. I., Oliyep^H. Perry, 
2d, New York ; Rev. Dr. G. B. Perry and his children — Hen- 
p.Y G. Perry, Oliver H. Perry, Willis G. Perry, and Emily 
Perry, Natchez, Miss.; Dr. Thomas N. PePuRY, Providence, R. 
I.; Dr. G. B., Perry, Williamsburgh, N.Y.; and Geo. H. Perry, 
Hopkinton, R. I. 



LETTES FROM O. H. PERST, SON OF COMMODORE PERRY. 

Boston, June 26, 186^ 
Dear Sir : — Your kind note in beHalf of tHe "Perry Monument Com- 
mittee" was cTufy received. 

It will be of great interest to Mrs. Perry and myself to witness tlie in- 
auguration of tlie Statue, and witli great pleasure we accept your polite 
snvitation. I am, dear sir, very truly, 

Your obedient servant, 

O. H. PERRY. 



rev. dr. tinton s letter.. 

5 Grace Court, Brooklyn, N. Y. 

My Dear Sir :— Your note of invitation to Mrs. Vinton, tlie only 
daughter of tlie late Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, and to myself, 
to attend the inauguration of the Statue of Perry at Cleveland, on tlie 
lOth of September, prox., demands our grateful acknowledgement. 

We shall avail ourselves, the Lord willing, of the opportunity to be 
present and witness the ceremonies, which will do honor to the patriot- 



14 

ism and munificence of the citizens of Cleveland, as well as to the mem- 
ory of Mrs. Vinton's heroic father. 

Accept, Sir, my profound acknowledgments of your courtes}', and of 
the consideration of the Committee. 

Your obedient servant, 

FRAXCIS YINTOX. 



MR. BELMONT S LETTER. 

New York, June 4, 1860. 

Dear ^-i • :— I have to acknowledge the receipt of your kind letter of 
the 29th pa-;', and beg to tender you my sincere thanks for the invitation 
with which you have honored me, to attend the inauguration of the Perry 
Statue, to take place in your city on the 10th of September next. 

If my engagements will permit me, I shall certainly avail myself of the 
honor which you confer upon me, and to which you give additional 
weight by coupling it with the kind invitation to be the guest of your 
citv on this interesting occasion. 

I hope that Mrs. Belmont will be able to accompany me, in order to 
witness the generous tribute which your noble city pays to the memory 
of the gallant brother of her lamented father, both cherished in the 
American heart as bright ornaments of that service which has thrown 
so much lustre upon the history of our Republic. 

In compliance with your request, I beg to hand you, annexed, a list 
of the addresHcs of some of the relatives of Commodore Oliver H. Perry, 
and have the honor to remain, very respectfully, 

Dear sir, your obedient servant, 

AUGUST BELMOXT. 



letter from LIEUT. RODGERS. 

]\IoRRisTOWN, 20th June, 1860. 

Dear Sir: — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note 
of the 14th inst., and I beg you to receive my thanks for the very court- 
eous manner in which you have conveyed to me and to my wife an in- 
vitation to be present on the 10th of September, at the inauguration of 
the Statue of Com. Perry, in the public Park at Cleveland. 

I feel a deep sense of the honor done ni}' brave Uncle, and to the pro- 
fession of which I am an humble member, by the citizens of Cleveland ; 
such honors are the best incentives to noble deeds; the monumental 
bronze is the symbol of that love witli which our country cherishes tlie 
memory of brave deeds done by its sons in its behalf, and may well in- 
cite the seamen of this Republic to emulate the courage and constancy 



15 

wliich illustrate the annals of our last war vritli Great Britain. Should 
it be in my power, I shall have the most sincere o-ratification in being at 
Cleveland to witness the ceremonies so interesting both to my family and 
my profession , and I remain, dear sir, most respectfully and faithfully, 

Yom- obedient servant, 

C. R P. EODGERS. 



MRS. JA2sE PEERYS LETTER. 

Xew York, June 7, I860. 
Dear Sir : — I was much gratified at receiving your polite invitation 
to visit Cleveland at the time of the inauguration of the Statue of my 
brother, and shall certainly be present, with my daughter, if my health 
will admit. Absence from the city has prevented me from answering 
your very kind letter sooner. Yours, very respectfully, 

JAXE PERRY. 



ZkTR. H0^^E'S LETTER. 

Dear Sir : — Your note of the 14th inst., conveying a special invitation 
for Mrs. Ho^■E and myself to attend the inauguration of the Perry Statue 
at Cleveland, was duly received. 

We feel deeply sensible of the high honor and compliment which the 
citizens of Cleveland have thus conferred upon ns, and will, should noth- 
ing mitoward prevent, have the satisfaction of being present on that oc- 
casion to witness a ceremony most gratifying to us, as relatives and 
connexions of the Hero of Lake Erie. 

"With many thanks for 3'our kindness, I am, dear sir. 

Yours very respectfully, 

JOHX HOXE. 



CAPT. CnAilPLIN S LETTER. 

Capt. Stephen CnAiiPLix was comiiiander of tlie sliip "Scor- 
pion'' ill tlie Battle. 

BuPFALO, June 26th, 1860. 
Sir : Your letter inviting me to be present at the inangnration of the 
Statue of Com. O. H. Perry, to come off on the 10th Sept., next, at 
Cleveland, is received. It will give me great pleasure, my health per- 
mitting, to attend. Yours very respectfully. 

STEPHEX CHAMPLIX 

In a subsequent letter of Aug. 30th, 1860, lie remarks as 



follow 



s ■ 



16 

DEATi Sir: — ^Your favor of the 29tli inst., came tMs mornmg to hand. 
1 am highly gratified with the comphment paid me in the offer to an- 
nounce me as Commander of the fleet: (alhiding to ihe Mock Battle.) 
I shall be in your city on Saturday morning, 8th prox., on board the 
steamer Western ;Metropolis, and hope to see you on arrival. I have 
taken the liberty to invito to be present, Mr. Azel Wilkinson, who was 
a pilot on board of the "Ariel," (1813,) and he will accompany me, 
I am, sir, yours very respectfully^ 

STEPHEN CHAMPLIN. 



LETTER FROM MR. J. D. W. PERRY. 

Bristol,, R. I. 
jy^AH Sir : — I accept with pleasure the invitation, and hope it may be 
in my power to be present at the inauguration. 

This patriotic and generous movement of the citizens of Cleveland has 
awakened a feeling of sympathy and admiration toward them in the heart 
of many a Rhode Islander. 

These feelings are warmly appreciated by all who. bear the name of 
him whose m^emory yoAi would perpetuate. 

I am very respectfully yours, 

JAMES D. W. PERRY. 



letter from r. s. rodgers, 

Havre de Grace,. Md., IS' July, 1'86(>; 
Dear Sir: — If possible we will have the greatest pleasure in being 
present at a ceremony particularly interesting to the relatives and con- 
nexions of Com. Perry, and commemorative of an ®veut which sheds 
so bright a renown upon our national history. 

Yery respectfully you.rs, 

ROBERT S. RODGERS. 



IxEtter from rey. dr. perry. 

Trinity Church Rectory, 
Natchez, Miss.^ June 11, 18G0. 
My Dear Sir : — Your favor of the SOtli ult., as Chairman of the Perry 
Monument Committee, inviting me to attend the inauguration of the 
Perry Statue at Cleveland, on the 10th of Sept. next,, and to act as Chap- 
lain on that day, is received. 

To perform such a service, at such a time, by one connected as myself, 
seems to me to be wliat ought to be regarded as both a duty and a pleasure. 
Please therefore signify to your Committee my acceptance of their invita- 
tion to act as Chaplain on that occasion. 

With feelings of high consideration for yourself, your Committee,, and 
the cause you represent,, I am, dsar sir,, yours, 

G. B. PERRY. 



17 

LETTER FKOM DOCT. EASTMAN, ASSISTANT SURGEON IN TECE WAR. 

Seville, Medina Co,. O., June 23, 1860. 

Dear Sir : — Your letter inviting me to attend the inauguration of the 
Perry Statue at Cleveland on the 10th September, is received. Please to 
present my sincere thanks to the Committee for their kind invitation. I 
shall be present on that interesting occasion, if life is spared, and health 
permits. 

I must say, however, that I was not on board Perry's fleet on the day 
of the battle. I volunteered to assi.'^t in dressing the wounds, and taking 
care of the wounded that were brought to the Marine Hospital at Erie, 
directl}^ after the action. In December following I received the appoint- 
ment of Acting Surgeon's Mate, and an order from Capt. Jessie D. Elli- 
ot, (then commander of the naval forces on the lakes,) to go to Put-in- 
Bay with a detachment of sailors under command of sailing-master Ste- 
phen Champlin. "We sailed from Erie in the United S*^ates schooner 
Scorpion, on the 16th day of December, and landed onPut-in-Bay island, 
and went on board the prize ship Detroit, on the 24th. I performed the 
duties of Surgeon on the two prize ships, the "Dttroit" and "Queen 
Charlotte," for a company of soldiers, commanded b}^ Lieut. Quintus F. 
Atkins,* and for a detachment of Ohio Militia, garrisoned on the island, 
there being no other medical officer at Put-in-Bay, until the 16th day of 
April, 1814, when Dr. Roberts took my place, and I returned to Erie 
with Capt. Elliot, on the United States schooner "Ariel." I was then 
ordered on board the brig "Niagara," and performed the duties of Sur- 
geon's Mate, until some time in the latter part of June, when I resigned 
my appointment, and left the service. 

Should I, at the inauguration on the 10th of September, chance to 
meet with any surviving associate, who passed the long and drearj' win- 
ters of 1813 and 1814 with me at Put-in-Bay, it would afford me the 
greatest pleasure to take him by the hand. 

Most respectfully yours, 

NATHANIEL EASTMAN. 



letter prom dr. parsons, surgeon on the flag ship LAWRENCE, 

Providence, R. L, Aug, 11, 18(J0. 
Dear Sir: — I perceive by the programme you were pleased to send 
me, that a "sham fight" is to come off on the 10 th of September, prob- 
ably to represent Perry's battle. If I am right, I venture to suggest that 
it might be well to consult some one who was in the fight, as to the order 
of sailing, and the evolutions performed during the battle. There is such 



* Quintus F. Atkins, formerly of Cleveland, but now deceased.--[ED3. Herali>. 



IS 

a person, wlio would be competent to inform the managers, and who 
could be consulted without trouble or expense. (See map.) 

HosEA Sargeant is, I believe, the only survivor of the flag ship, 
Lawrence, except myself. He escaped without injury in the battle, 
helped fire the last gun, and hauled down the Commodore's fighting flag, 
and passed it to him in the boat, which lie carried with him on his shoul- 
der to the Niagara. Sargeant has come to light within the last year, 
I well remember him in the Lawrence. Although an experienced sailor 
at the time, he enlisted in the army near Ciucinnati for eighteen months 
as sergeant. He was wit!'. Croghan in the defence of Fort Stephenson, 
and soon after volunteered as one of the thirty-six from Harrison's 
army, to serve on board the fleet, and was stationed in the Lawrence. 
After the battle he returned to the army, and was in several other bat- 
tles. He is perfectly reliable and truthful. The Presidents of the rail- 
roads, on my mentioning him, immediately offered him a free ticket to 
Cleveland and back. If the managers of the sham fight would like to 
consult some one of the survivors respecting the order of battle, and suc- 
cessive changes in the fleet, Sargeatst would be just the man. 

Yours very respectfull}^, 

USHER PARSONS. 



LETTER FROM JUDGE M CANDLESS. 

Pittsburgh, July 25th, 1860. 
Dear Sir: — No judicial engagement intervening to prevent it, I shall 
take great pleasure in accepting the invitation extended to participate in 
3'our patriotic celebration on the 10th of September. The pleasure will 
be enhanced, in renewing a cherished acquaintance with our great histo- 
rian, Mr. Bancroft, and hearing from his lips, that alone can tell, in 
terms of fitting eulogy, of the heroic merits and indomitable bravery of 
Commodore Perry. Yeiy respectfully yours, 

WILSON M'CANDLESS. 



letter from: the poet bryant. 

New York, August 23d, 1860. 
Sir:— Allow me, through you, to thank the Perry Monument Com- 
mittee for the honor they have done me in the invitation to be present at 
the inauguration of the Statue of our illustrious naval commander. I 
should take great pleasure in visiting again your city, of the beauty of 
which I retain a most agreeable remembrance, and no less in listenmg to 
the great historian, who will address the assemblage on that occasion. 
My occupations are such, however, that I must forego that pleasure. 

I am, sir, respectfully yours, 

W. C. BRYANT. 



19 

LETTER FEOM THE HISTORIAN LOSSEN'G, 

POUGHXEEPSEE, X Y. 

My Dear Sir : — I accept your invitation to attend the inauguration 
of the Peny Statue, on the 10th of September, -^th pleasure, and thank 
you most cordially for your kind remembrance of me. It will indeed be 
an occasion of national interest, honorable alike to the patriotism that 
conceived, and the public spirit that executed a work so worthy of a free 
people, and delightful to all who shall participate in the ceremonies of 
the day. 

Please present my thanks to your associates on the Committee, and 
accept for yourself and them, the kind regards of 

Your friend and ob't servant, 

BEXSOX J. LOSSIXG. 



LETTER FRO^I GRAXD MASTER STOKES. 

LEBA2fo:jf, O., June 15, A. D., 1860. 

Dear Sir : — Yours of the 11th inst., inviting me as Grand Master of 
Masons in Ohio, to attend the inauguration of the Perry Statue in your 
city, on the 10th of September next, and perform the 3Iasonic cere- 
monies on that occasion, is received. 

Deeming it a great privilege to be instrumental in any degree, ja 
contributing to the interest of this patriotic enterprize of the citizens 
of the Forest City, in honoring the memory of the gallant defender of 
the Lakes, it affords me much pleasure to accept your courteous invi- 
tation. 

On behalf of the fraternity permit me to present to the Committee, 
and through it. to the citizens of Cleveland, our grateful acknowledge- 
ments for this mark of their respect and consideration, to pledge our 
best efforts to make the occasion imposing and interesting. 

Yours truly, 

HORACE M. STOKES. 



LETTER FROM GOV. DE2s"X[S0X, OF OHIO. 

CoLOLBrs, June 23d, 1860. 
Deaji Sir : — I have the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of your 
esteemed favor of the 20th inst,, and in reply have the honor to in- 
form you that I will be happy to be present at the inauguration of the 
Perry Monumi^nt at Cleveland, on the 10th of September next, in 
compliance with your kind invitation. I hope to be accompanied by 
all the members of my staff. 

Your ob't sei-vant, 

TV. DEXOTSOK 



20 

LETTER FROM GOVERNOR SPRAGUE OF RHODE ISLAND. 

Providence, Aug. 30, 1860, 

Dear Sir : — Your telegram came duly to hand, also letter of the 27th, 
The reception of the Rhode Island delegation, as you propose, is very 
creditable to Gov. Dennison and your committee, and is duly appreci- 
ated by me and the delegation ; but, for myself, I should be very glad 
indeed to come quietly to Cleveland, reserving all your attention to the 
object of your celebration. In the multitude of my private and official 
duties, I cannot give much time to that preparation which would be ne- 
cessary to a creditable reply to so hospitable a reception. 

I am, with regards to your committee, 

Your ob't servant, 

WM. SPRAGUE. 



AVe liave purposely reserved for tlie last a deej^ly interesting 
letter, received from tlie present Secretary of State. General 
Cass has been identified with the history of the North West 
since its organization as a Territory. I^o man living more so. 
In the war of 1812, he proved himself a brave and valuable officer, 
aim no officer under Hull showed greater indignation at the 
surrender of Detroit than he ; and had the troops in Detroit been 
under Gen. Cass, instead of Gen, Hull, no &uch stain would 
now rest upon the American arms as w^as caused by Hull's sur- 
render. 

This letter describes the opening of that famous dispatch, 
"We have met the enemy and they are ours." It makes the 
blood course wdth accelerated force to read the account, even on 
this forty-seventh anniyersary of that great day. 

LETTER FROM LEW^IS CASS. 

Washington City, Sept. 5, 1860. 

Sir : — I received some time since, your letter written on behalf of the 
Committee associated with you, inviting me to attend the ceremonies 
which will mark the inauguration of the Statue of Commodore Perry, 
which the citizx'ns of Cleveland design to erect in honor of his memory. I 
have delayed an answer till this time in the hope that I miglit be able to 
be present on that interesting occasion. But finding myself disappointed, 
I have to express to you my regret at being compelled to be absent and 
at the same time to assure you that I fully participate in those generous 
sentiments which led to this manifestation of public gratitude. The day 



21 

and the deed you meet to commemorate will forever occup}' one of tlie 
brightest pages in the history of our country. 

Your reference to my position at the period of the battle, renders it 
proper that I should recall the circumstances to Tvhich you refer. I was 
not, as you suppose, the ''Commanding General on the Western Fron- 
tier." General Hahkisox had been called to that arduous situation, and 
well were its duties fufiUed by him. I was under his command as a 
Brigadier General in the Army of the United States, and had been 
stationed for some time at Seneca, on the Sandusky river, where the 
troops destined for the invasion of Canada were assembled with a view 
of ulterior operations, when the proper moment for action should amve. 
Xot long before the engagement, I accompanied General Hakrisox on a 
visit to Commodore Perry, then with his fleet near Put-in-Bay, in order 
to concert with him such measures as it might be necessary mutually to 
adopt. It was detennined in consequence of the lateness of the season, 
if the British fleet did not make its appearance soon, the Aiiny should be 
put in motion within a short time, and cross the upper part of the Lake 
in open boats, without awaiting the result of a naval conflict. In con- 
formity with this resolution, General Harrisox marched from Seneca 
with a portion of the Army, for the mouth of Portage river, the point 
selected for embarkation, about the 10th of September, 1813, but before 
any intelligence of the battle had been received. He left me in command 
of the main body of the army. His movements and designs are indicated 
in the following extract of his letter to General Armstox&, then Secretary 
of TVar, dated "Head Qaarters, Mouth of Portage River, on Lake Erie, 
loth Sept., 1813,"' which I have caused to be copied from the original 
report : 

''Sir : — You will have been informed from the letter of Commodore 
Perry to the Secretary of the Xavy of the brilliant naval victory ob- 
tained by him, and the capture of the whole of the enemy's flotilla on 
this Lake. I arrived here the day before yesterday with a part of the 
troops from Seneca Town, and this morning General Cass has brought 
on the remainder. Governor Shelby has also arrived with his militia. 
We are busily engaged in embarking the stores and artillery, and by the 
day after to-morrow the whole will be afloat. General McAethur will 
join me the day after, at the Bass Islands, with the troops from Fort 
Meigs, and on the following night, if the weather permit, we shall sail for 
the Canada shore." ■^^****-^** 

Towards evening on the 12th of September an express reached the 
camp at Seneca bringing the first news of the brilliant victory in which 
we felt so deep an interest. He was conducted to my tent, and delivered 
to me a package of dispatches. Among these was a letter for the Secre- 
t-ary of the Xavy, and another for the Commanding General. The latter 
I opened and read with feelings it were vain to attempt to describe. It 
contained the memorable annunciation that the battle had been fought 
and the victory won, in those imperishable words, which I need not re- 
peat, for they are everywhere engraved upon the American heart. The 



22 

intelligence was immediately communicated to tlie troops, and tliose 
who were present, and are now living, can only appreciate the joyful 
emotions with which it was received. It was not only gratifying to their 
national pride, as a great naval victory, but it secured to them a safe pas- 
sage across the Lake, to the enemy's shore. The manifestations of 
this feeling, exhibited upon that occasion, are vividly impressed upon 
my memory. I am, dear sir, very respectful! 3', 

Your ob't servant, 

LEW. CASS. 



COMMITTEES. 



July lOtli, 1860, in accordance with tlie request of the Chair- 
man of the original Perry Monument Committee, the City Coun- 
cil adopted the following Kesolution. offered by Mr. Clark : 

Resolved, That a Committee of five be appointed by this Council, the 
President included, to act in connection with the Perry MoDument Com- 
mittee, in locating the statue of Com. Perry, to be inaugurated in this 
city on the 10th of September next, and also to assist in completino- the 
arrangements for said inauguration, in compliance with the request 
made to the CouncU this evening. Adopted, and Messrs. Clark, Hay- 
ward, HovEY, and Palmer, appointed. 



EEPOET OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE. 

Clevelaisd, July 16th, 1800. 
To THE City Council of the City of Cleveland: — The select 
Committee of the Council appointed to act with the Perry Monument 
Committee, in designating the particular spot in the Public Park where 
the Perry ^fonument should be placed, would respectfully state that 
the joint Committee have had the subject under consideration, and have 
endeavored to come to proper conclusions in reference to the location of 
the Monument as a question of correct taste, and without reference to 
any other question ; and in order that they might judge of this matter 
•with the aid of the best information they could obtain, the joint Com- 
mittee requested Mr. Walcutt, to state his views as an artist, in respect 
to the location which would give the finest artistic effect to the appear- 
ance of tlie statue ; and being in the possession of his opinion, and desir- 
ing to place the Monument in a spot which shall better accord with the 
principles of good taste and public sentiment, your Committee have with 



23 

but two dissenting voices, embodied tlieir joint decision in tbe following 
resolution, wbich tliey present as their report, subject to the action of said 
Council, to wit : 

Besolved, That it is the sense of this joint Committee, that the Periy 
Monument should be located in the center of the Central Park of this 
citj ; and that the Fountain now occupying that site be removed under 
the dii'ection of the City Council. 

All of which is respectfully submitted, by order of the joint Commit- 
tee. ' J. H. CLAEK, Chairnmn. 

July 17th, 1860, P».eport approved; and the following resolu- 
tion, embodying the subsequent amendment, adopted. 

By 3Ir. Claek, (from Select Committee on Perry Statue.) TVhereas, 
by the action of the Joint Peny Monument Committee as embodied in 
then report to this Council, it was recommended that the Perry Monu- 
ment be located in the center of the Central Park of this city, and that 
the Fountain now occupying that site be removed under the direction of 
the City Council, therefore, 

Besol'oed^ That said recommendation be adopted, and that the Special 
Committee of this Council having that matter in charge, are hereby au- 
thorized and empowered to cause the removal of said Fountain audits lo- 
cation at a central point near the north-west comer of the Public Square. 



IXAUGUEATIOy COMMITTEES. 

Original Perry Monument Committee, appointed by the 
Council of 1S57; Haevey Eice, 0. M. Oviatt, J, M. Cof- 

FIXBEEEY, C. D. ^^ILLIAMS, J. KlEKPATEICK. 

Joint Conamittee from present Council : J. H. Claek, I. U. 
Mastees, ^. H. Hayt\'eaD; J. D. Palmee. J. Hoyey. 

SL^B-COMMITTEES. 

Reception : — Haeyey Eice, Geo. B. Sextee. W'x. B. Cas- 
tle, Joseph Peekixs. J. H. Claek. 

Entertainment: — J. H. Claek, Haeyey Eice, Joseph Eee- 
Kixs, G. J. Ballaed. 

Mock Battle :— I. L\ Mastees, Tho^ias Qeayle. AY. H. 
Haywaed. 

Printing : — AY. H. Haytvaed. G. G. Mixoe. 

Carriages : — J. D. Ealmee. 



24 

The Perry Monument Committee, made the following report 
to the City Council : 

Cleyelais'd, Sept. 4th, 1860. 
To THE City Council of the City of Cleveland :— The Perry 
Monument Committee respectfully report, that the Perry Monument 
will be completed on Thursday next, and ready for inauguration 
on the 10th, inst., and as the Monument is erected in the Public Park by 
authority of your Honorable body, and with the intention that it should 
become the property of the city when finished, your Committee therefore 
request your Honorable body to authorize the Mayor to accept the Mon- 
ument in behalf of the city, as part of the public exercises on the occa- 
sion of the inauguration. 

HARVEY RICE, 

Chairman Perry Monument Committee. 

"\Vhereu23on the report was accepted and placed on file, and 
the following resolution, oftered by Mr. J. H. Claek, unani- 
mously adopted : 

Resolved, That the Mayor is hereby authorized in behalf of the City 
of Cleveland to accept the Perry Statue from ths contractors Messrs. T. 
Jones & Sons, and also to tender to them our unqualified approbation 
for the fidelity and promptitude with which they have executed the valu- 
able trust committed to them. And also, to express to the Artist and 
Sculptor, William Walcutt, Esq., our admiration and highest appre- 
ciation of the genius and culture which conceived and perfected in the 
almost living and breathing marble, that design which now stands an en- 
during monument, unsurpassed as we believe, in our country in all those 
qualities which constitute the true gloiy of his profession — crowning his 
brow with such laurels as his noblest ambition may well covet. 



RECEPTION OF GOV. SPRAGUE AXD STAFF OF 
RHODE ISLAND, THE OFFICERS OF STATE, MEM- 
BERS OF THE LEGISLATURE, AND THE PROVL 
DENGE LIGHT INFANTRY. 



SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER, Stli 



The Rhode Ishind visitors consisting of Gov. Sprague and 
staff; Officers of the State of Rhode Island; Members of the 
Rhode Island Legislature, and the Providence Light Infantry, 
arrived at the Depot at 3.30 this P. M. They were received 
with military honors at the Depot by the ''Light Guards" in 
Zouave uniform, Capt. Sanfoed, and the " Grays," Capt. 
Paddock. 

On the arrival at the Depot, F. J. Dickman, Esq., introduced 
Gov. Speague, and others of the Rhode Island delegation to 
the Committee of Reception. The guests were then taken in 
carriages and conveyed to the Angier, accompanied by the 
Providence Military, under escort of the the Cleveland Light 
Guards and Grays. The Wayne Guards, of Erie, and Dod- 
woeth's Band, also came up with the delegation. 

On arriving at the Angier, Hon. Haevey Rice introduced 
Gov. Speague to Gov. Denxison, and then presented the two 
Governors to the Military and the crowd in the street from the 
balcony. 

Gov. Dexnison then welcomed the Rhode Island guests in 
the following admirable speech : 

GOVERNOR DENNISON's SPEECH. 

GovEimoR Sprague : — I perform with great pleasure the duty which 
has been assigned me, of welcoming you and your escort to this city. 

To welcome you among us, at any time, as the chief Executive of your 
patriotic State, whose fame is connected with many of the most brilliant 
achievements of the American arms, on land and sea, and whose tri- 



26 

UDiplis in peace have been no less conspicuous than in war, would give 
nie the sincerest gratification; but to do so here, and upon the occasion 
that has brought us together, so full of the proudest memories to the 
American citizen — the commemoration of the first American victory in 
a general naval action with a powerful foe — is one of the most pleasing 
duties that it has been my fortune to discharge. 

I may not dwell upon the incidents of that brilliant victory, gained 
by a youthful Hero who had never seen a naval engagement, and of 
which President Madison justly said, " it was never surpassed in lustre, 
however much it may have been in magnitude ;" nor may I detail the 
consequences of that noble success of the American Navy, in elevating 
the miltary character of our Nation ; in contributing to the defeat of the 
British forces in Canada, and in securing an early peace to our Western 
States and Territories. 

These will be given by the eminent Historian of our country, (Mr. 
Bancroft), with whose presence we are honored, and by the Assistant 
Surgeon of the Lawrence^ (Dr. Parsons,) whose humanity and skill in 
the discharge of his official duties, have honorably associated his name 
with that of his illustrious Captain. 

To these distinguished gentlemen, and again to you, sir, as the hon- 
ored representative of your noble State, founded on the broadest prin. 
ciples of civil and religious freedom, and numbering among her sons a 
host of illustrious men whose deeds have shed an imperishable lustre 
upon our country, — to your escort and the members of the Legislature 
of your State, on behalf of the patriotic citizens and the public authori- 
ties of Cleveland, and of the people of this State, I tender a hearty and 
fraternal welcome here to-day. 

GOV. SPR ague's reply. 

Governor Dennison : — I thank your Excellency very sincerely, for 
the kind welcome which you have given to the Rhode Island Delega- 
tion. That delegation consists of two veterans, who served in the Battle 
of Lake Erie, Captain Brownell, on my right, as second officer of the 
Ariel^ and Dr. Usher Parsons, on my left, whose services, on board the 
Lawrence^ in ameliorating the suff'erings of the wounded, have become 
historical ; a son of the heroic Perry, bearing the honored name of his 
father, and two nephews^ our Secretary of State; a large delegation of 
the State Legislature; the gentlemen of my personal Staff; the general 
Staff of the State; the Major General of the State; and a Brigadier 
General of the Line, Staff Officers, and one hundred and one members 
of the first Light Inflxntry Company of Providence, whose ranks are filled 
to-day by some of our most valuable and eminent citizens: the Mayor of 
the City of Providence, as their guest, the Line and Staff' Officers of the 
Battery of Light Artillery in Providence, and tlie former Chief Engineer 
of the Fire Department in their ranks. It will, sir, I am sure, be con- 



27 

sidered as giving special interest to the presence of the Infantry, Tvho 
have accompanied me here to-day, when I state the fact that they bore 
the remains of the heroic Peert to his last resting place. Such the State 
of Rhode Island sends here to represent her on this august occasion, 
with her cordial greetings to the people of Ohio. 

The part which our state has taken, in the annals of the nation, is 
known to you, and she needs no enconiums from me. History has as 
signed her her place. I thank you. Sir, for the honorable mention of her 
services; we are not here, however, to be honored, but to honor, to unite 
with you in celebrating an event, which, for the importance of its results 
and for the heroism which it displayed, stands unmatched in the records 
of our country. 

"We thank the citizens of Cleveland for this opportunity to testify our 
appreciation of the public virtue, and the patriotic discharge of duty. 
Rhode Island feels toward you. Sir, and the people of Ohio, as a mother 
feels towards those who honor the deeds and the memory of her most 
cherished son. 

And now, without longer detaining you. Sir, and the gentlemen of our 
delegation, who desire rest from the fatigues of their journe}^ I again re- 
tarn you and the patriotic citizens of Cleveland my most heartfelt thanks. 

At the close of the reception ceremonies, the Military from 
Providence, proceeded nnder escort to their c[uarters, at the 
"Wedciell.^' 



CALL MADE BY THE MILITARY. 

On Saturday evening the scene in the elegant drawing room 
of the Angier, was a brilliant one, upon the occasion of a call by 
the officers of Providence Light Infantry, and Providence Ma- 
rine Corps of Artillery upon Governor Dennison and Mr. Ban- 
croft. On one side was Gov. Lennison's Staff as follows : Adj. 
Cen. H. B Carrington, Qnar. Mas. Gen. Wood, Com'sy. Gen. 
Buttles, Paymaster Gen. Jones, Eng. in Chief, Gen. Bill, Sur- 
geon Gen. McMillan, Gen. J. H. Bates, Aid Mygatt and Aid 
O'Hara. On the other side was Gov. Sprague's Staff, to wit : 
Col. Harris, Col. Gardner, Col. Frieze, Adj. Gen. Moran, Maj. 
Gould, with the Governors personal Staff, viz : Majors Pratt, 
Clark and Anthony. There are also attached to the Governor's 
suite, Brig. Gen. Dyer, and Lieut. Brownell, who was sailing 
master on the Ariel. Also, Quar. Mas. Gen. T. J. Stead, with 
Capt. Stead, of his Staff, Com. Gen. Wm. Gilpin, Surgeon Gen. 
F. L. Wheaton, with Capts. Reeves and Carr of his Staff. 



28 

There were also present Hon. J. R. Bartlett, Secretary of State 
of R. I., twenty-three members of the General Assembly of 
Rhode Island, Mayor Knight, of Providence and two members of 
the Providence City Council. 

At the head stood Governors Sprague and Dennison with Mr. 
Bancroft. The officers of the Infantry and Marine Corps were 
severally introduced and a familiar interchange of social courte- 
sies took place. The display of military was very fine and the 
call passed off in a brilliant manner. 



THE PROVIDENCE MILITARY AT CHURCH. 

The Providence Light Infantry and Providence Marine Corps, 
on invitation, attended St. Paul's Church, Sunday, in a body. 
The church was crowded by an attentive audience. The Rev. 
Mr. Paddock, Rector of the Church, read the service and the 
sermon was delivered by the Rev. Dr. Claxton, of St. Luke's 
Church, Rochester, late rector of St. Paul's. 

The presence of the Providence Military and the full atten- 
dance by St. Paul's parishioners to hear their late Rector, made 
the occasion a very interesting one. 

The visit by the Providence Military was a very graceful 
compliment to the Cleveland churches, inasmuch as Bishop 
Claek, of Rhode Island, was officiating at the Camp Ground. 



SUNDAY AT CAMP PERRY. 

At Camp Perry, Sunday, there was a constant in-pouring and 
out-going of visitors. The Street Railroad cars went and came 
loaded to inconvenience, and many made the journey on foot. 

The order for the day was published on Saturday, and was 
fulfilled with the exception of the parade at 10 } o'clock, for 
which the religious services were substituted. At the proper 
hour, Gov. Dennison and Staff, Gov. Sprague and Staff, Rt. Rev. 
Bishop Clark, of Rhode Island ; Hon. J. R. Bartlett, Secretary 
of State of Rhode Island ; Dr. LTsher Parsons, Mr. Ben. Flem- 
ing, of Erie, Pa; Col. Boylston ; and others arrived at the 
Camp, and were received by Brig. Gen. Fitch at his c[uarters. 



29 

Afterwards tlie services were held, the officers occupying tlie 
stand in the center of the grounds, and the troops being drawn 
up before it. The companies marched without music bearing no 
arms. Rt. Rev. Bishop Clark, of Rhode Island, officiated. 
Capt. Thos. Brownell, (of the "Ariel") was also present in his 
full uniform of the olden style. There was a very large atten- 
dance of spectators. The dinner drum sounded at 12 J o'clock, 
and the parade took place at 4. 



ST. JOHN'S CHURCH, SUNDAY. 

The relatives of Com. Perry, guests of the city, attended St. 
John's Church on Sunday. The Rev. Dr. Perry officiated, 
aided by Rev. Mr. Burton, the Rector. 



THE PERRY RELATIVES. 

The following members and connections of the Perry family 
are registered at the American House : 

Rev. Dr. Vinton, Mrs. Vinton, Miss. E. Perry Vinton, and 
Master Oliver Perry Vinton, New York City ; 0. IT. Perry, 
Boston, son of the Commodore ; Alexander P'erry, James De 
Wolf Perry, Sr., James De Wolf Perry, Jr., nephews of Com, 
Perry, Bristol, R. I. ; Lieut. M. C. Perry, U. S. N., Dr. G. 
M. Perry, and lady, Pawtucket, R. I. ; John Stone, Esq. ; Rev. 
Dr. Gr. B. Perry, Natchez, Tenn. ; Miss Belmont, daughter of 
Auguste Belmont, of New York, and niece of the Commodore, 

Mr. and Mrs. John Hone, of Morristown, N. J., Mrs. PL 
and Lieut. M. C. Perry, are children of Com. M. C. Perry, of 
the famous Japan Expedition. 



THE GLORIOUS TENTH! 



INCIDENTS OF THE DAY— THE CROWD AND THE 
RAIL ROADS— MASONIC BANQUETS— NxiVAL BAT- 
TLE—ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND PEOPLE. 



Tlie morning of tlie ever glorious Tenth, opened promisingly, 
the weather was just cool enough to be pleasant, the air clear 
and pure, the streets free from dust, and everything as nicely ar- 
ranged as could be desired by the most particular person. 

The day was ushered in by the firing of cannon, ringing of 
bells, and other demonstrations of joy. At an early hour the 
streets gave token of the immense crowd that would speedily fill 
the city to overfi.owing. Thousands of people on foot were pass- 
ing to and fro, the air was filled with martial strains from the 
bands of the numerous military companies on duty, hundreds of 
country teams bringing in people living off the lines of railroad, 
jogged on in steady procession, and long before the arrival of 
the first excursion train, the city seemed to be packed to its full 
extent. 

THE CROWD— THE RAILROADS— STEAMBOATS— TEAMS, &c. 

For two or three days previous the railroads had been bringing 
in large trains loaded down with people to attend the great Cel- 
ebration. Many commenced coming on Friday, and on Saturday 
the crowds poured in at such a rate that it seemed as if there 
would be no room left for the crowd that were to arrive on Mon-. 
day. 



^31 

. On Monday morning the trains came in loaded down, inside 
and outside, and on the top. Never before did cars come into 
Cleveland so densely packed with people. The masses of hu- 
manity clinging to them wherever foothold or hand-grip could be 
obtained, could be likened to nothing but a swarm of bees on a 
bush. 

We have procured from the railroad officers the exact number 
of the cars brought, and their estimates of the people. The 
figures for Saturday are exclusively for excursion cars, none of 
the cars containing regular business travel being counted. The 
figures for Monday are up to noon only. The folloAving are the 
figures : 

SATURDAY. MONDAY MORNING. 

Cleveland and Erie 25 cars 51 cars 

Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati, - 13 " • 54 " 

Cleveland and Toledo, 10 " 63 " 

Cleveland and Pittsburgh, ----- 25 " 84 " 

Cleveland and Mahoning, 10 " 39 " 

83 cars. 291 cars, 

making a total of 374 cars. The lowest estimate put on these 
by the railroad officials is 80 to a car, and this, it is admitted, is 
unquestionably below the mark. At this rate the railroads 
alone brought in over tlvirty thousand per sojis. 

Besides these, several steamboats from Buffalo, Detroit and 
Sandusky, on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, brought in not 
less than 6000 persons. From the surrounding country a dis- 
tance of more than fifty miles, the teams came pouring in, in 
endless procession, and undoubtedly brought more than all the 
railroads added together. Thousands from the immediate neigh- 
borhood, finding no means of conveyance, came in on foot. We 
heard a number of estimates made during the day, based on 
railroad and steamboat figures that prove to have been far short 
of the reality, and scarcely one of them fell below one hundred 
thousand people. We adopt this number as the most reliable 
estimate. 



32 
THE PROCESSION. 

The various bodies comprising tlie procession comnienced 
forming at 9 A. M. The Masons, Odd FelloAvs, Old Soldiers, 
etc., were drawn up on Erie street, north of Euclid, Avhile the 
military came into line from the south side. The vast body was 
sometime in preparing to move, which it did in the following 
order : 

BAND. 

General J. W. Fitch and Staff, acting as Marshal and Assistant 

Marshals of the Day. 

First Regiment Cleveland Light Artillery, under command of 

Col. James Barnett and Lieut. Col. S. B. Sturges, composed 

of the following Companies : 

Co. A Capt. Simmons. 

Co. E Capt. Heckman. 

Co. D Capt. Rice. 

Co. B Capt. Mack. 

Co. A., Capt. Kinney, Geneva, 0. 
Brooklyn Light Artillery, Capt. Pelton. 

BAND. 

Cleveland Light Dragoons, Capt. Haltnorth. 
Maj. Gen. Mariner and Staff, Akron. 

BAND. 

Cleveland Grays, Capt. Paddock. 

BAND. 

Cleveland Light Guards, Capt. Sanford. 

BAND. 

Wayne Guards, Erie, Capt. J. W. McLain. 

BAND. 

Columbus Vedettes, Capt. Thrall. 
Lake Rifle Co., Uniontown, Capt. . 

BAND. 

Company D., Buffalo, Major Bidwcll. 

BAND. 

Bruce Light Guards, Dunkirk, Capt. W. 0. Stcvqns. 

BAND. 

Hibernian Guards, Capt. Kenny. 

BAND. 



33 

Dayton Light Guards, Capt. W. B. Pease. 

BAND. 

Washington Infantry, Pittsburgh, Capt. Kowley. 

BAND. 

Providence Light Infantry, Providence, Pihode Island, CoL Brown, 
Gov. Dennison and Staff, of Ohio. 
Gov. Sprague and Staff, of Khode Island. 
Members of the Legislature and other distinguished guests of 
Khode Island. ''^ 

Gen. Gould and Staff of Newport, E. I. 
Gen. Dyer and Staff of Providence, K. I. 
Mayor and Common Council of the city of Cleveland and Com- 
mittee of Arrangements. 
T. Jones & Sons, Contractors for the erection of the Perry Statue. 

BAND. 

Surviving Officers and Soldiers of the War of 1812, under com- 
mand of Major Boylston. 
Survivors who shared in the Battle of Lake Erie. 
Officers of the Army and Navy. 
Surviving Relatives of Commodore Perry, the Hero of Lake Erie. 
William Walcutt, Sculptor of the Statue, and Eev. Dr. Perry, 
Chaplain of the Day. 

BAND. 

Lion. George Bancroft, the American Historian, and Dr. Usher 

Parsons, Surgeon in the service of Perry's Fleet, Orators 

of the Day. 

Judges of the Federal and State Courts. 

Clergy of the City, of Cleveland and from abroad. 

Free and Accepted Masons under the command of Heman El}', 

Marshal, as follows : 

MASONIC PEOCESSION. 

Two Tylers v/ith Drawn Sword. 

Tyler of Oldest Lodge with a Drawn Sword. 

Two Stewards of the Oldest Lodge. 

Entered Apprentices. 

Fellow Crafts. 

Master Masons. 

Past Secretaries. 

Past Treasurers. 
3 



34 

Past Junior Wardens, 

Present Masters of Lodges. 

Mark Masters. 

Past Masters. 

Eoyal Arch Masons. 

Select Masters. 

The Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of Ohio, 

Knights Templar who escort the Grand Lodge of Ohio. 

The Grand Body formed as follows : 

Grand Tyler with Drawn Sword. 

Two Grand Stewards with Pods. 

Past Master with Golden Vessel containing Corn. 

Masons bearing Square, Level and Plumb. 

Two Past Masters, with Silver Vessel, containing Wine and Oil. 

Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer. 

The Five Orders. 

Past Master with a Candlestick. 

Master with Holy Bible, supported by two Stewards with Rods, 

Two Past Masters with Candlesticks. 

Grand Chaplain. 

Grand AVarden. 

Grand Orator, 

Deputy Grand Master. 

The Oldest Master with Book, of Ancient Constitutions. 

Grand Deacons with Pods seven feet apart. 

Past Grand Masters. 

Grand Master. 

Two Stewards with White Rods. 

Grand Sword Bearer with Drawn Sword. 

Independent Order of Odd Fellows under the command of C. H. 

Babcock and Assistants. 

BAND. 

Order of Good Fellows under the command of H. Sackmann. 

Cleveland Turnverein. 

American Express Co., eight-horse team, from Buffalo, driven by 

A. P. Sherman, of that city. 
U. S. Express Co., an eight-horse team, driven by Jerome 

Greenfield. 

Several smaller teams of this Company were also in procession. 

Full rigged ship manned by Sailors of the War of 1812. 

Citizens and Strangers. 



35 

The procession was about forty minutes passing a given point. 
The disphiv of military was very fine, and that of the Masons 
one never ecjualled in the West. Among the military, the Prov- 
idence Light Infantry was the favorite. Their beautiful dress, 
thorough martial bearing, correct movements, and splendid Band, 
made them the observed by all. Such a company can be fur- 
nished bv but few States. 



THE lis AUGUEATIO]N[ CEREMOMES. 

The procession reached the Park about half past one o'clock. 
A large area had been roped off, in the center of which Avas the 
Statue, on a green mound, enclosed by an iron railing. To the 
west of the Statue ^%s placed a large platform, capable of hold- 
ing several hundred persons. This Avas appropriated to the in- 
vited guests. A smaller raised platform in front Avas for the 
speakers and surAUA'ors of the battle. Immediately in front was 
a lower platform, excellently arranged for the convenience of 
reporters, of Avhich about forty were present. The Statue was 
A'eiled with the American flag. 

From an early hour, the Park outside the roped enclosure 
Avas packed tightly with thousands of people, who Avere deter- 
mined to see the whole of the ceremonies, although it cost them 
some hours of standing and squeezing. A large police force, 
under the general command of Marshal Craw, kept fine order. 

As the procession reached the Park, the Military, Masonic 
Lodges, and three hundred Soldiers of the War of 1812, Avere 
marched into the enclosure, and took up position at diff'erent 
points. 

We noticed, suspended from the roof of the speakers' stand, 
an old lantern used in the Battle of Lake Erie, and a tattered 
ensign, displayed in the Pevolutionary Battle of Eutaw Springs. 
During the speech of Dr. Ushee, Parsons, an old coat, worn 
by Peeey in the great Battle, was displayed, and evoked much 
enthusiasm. It was a common sailor's blue round jacket. • 



86 

The proceeding.s opened hj a prayer from the Rev. Dr. Per- 
B.J, one of the relatives of the Commodore. 



PHATER BY THE CHAPLAIN OF THE DAY, EEV. DR. G. B. PERRY, OF 
NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI. 

O God, thou art very great. Thou art clothed with honor and majesty, 
thou coverest thj^self with liglit as with a garnient ; thou walkest upon 
the wings of the wind. When we reflect upon the immensity of thy glory^ 
we are filled with wonder at thy condescension, for thou not only be- 
boldest the sublimities of heaven, but hast regard and pity for this vile 
earth. 

We rejoice that we are under the governance of a Being who is nol 
only Almighty, but perfectly righteous and wise ; that all things in our 
world are constituted and disposed by thy paternal agency ; that thy 
Providence numbers the hairs of our heads, and not even a sparrow falls 
to the ground without thy permission^ for thy presence filleth the Uni- 
verse. 

There is none like unto thee, — rich in Mercy— ^glorious in Holiness — 
fearful in Praise — doing wonders. But we have sinned, and are poor and 
miserable offenders. Grant unto us true repentance for all our trans- 
gressions, and a living faith in thy Son, our Saviour^ who was delivered 
for our offences, and raised again for our justification; and now liveth 
above to make intercession for us. In His name we offer our petitions^ 
and through his merits we plead for pardon and acceptance. 

We thank Thee for thy abundant goodness — for the seeing eye — the 
hearing ear — the power of mind, with all other blessings of this life — 
and above all, for the precious Gospel and its vast immunities so es- 
sential and encouraging here — so triumphant and glorious hereafter. 

Look graciously upon our public institutions. Forbid that by any 
omission of duty, or commission of wrong, we should mar their beauty 
or weaken their conservative power. May they continue to be, as we 
trust they have been, as the apple of thine eye, and as a signet upon 
thy heart, giving occasion to exclaim, — "Surely this great Nation is a 
wise and understanding people, for what nation is there so great, who 
hath God so nigh unto them as the Lord our God is in all things that we 
call upon him for ?" 

Let not the star of Religious and Civil Liberty wane, or go down in 
this great land, but may it shine forth brighter and brighter unto the per- 
fect day, till all people shall learn thy name and revere thy government. 

Hear us, O Lord, and hasten that period when the light of Science as 
embosomed in thy Truth, shall break forth like the sun in the lieavens. 
Before its majestic march, let ignorance flee away,, and wisdom and 
knowledge fill the earth. 



37 

Continue, O Heavenly Father, the Omnipotent protector of this thy 
chosen and peculiar people whose enfranchisement cost our fathers, toil, 
treasure, suffering and blood. 

Grant thy blessing upon our Chief Magistrate and all subordinates. 
Rule our rulers — counsel our counsellors— teach our teachers, and order 
all our alliiirs at home and abroad, for the glory of thy name, the wel- 
fare of thy Church, the good of the world, and the special happiness of 
this Commonwealth. Avert from us the judgments which we feel or 
may justly fear. Hush the discord of the Nations and restore peace to 
the troubled earth? 

Bless the arms of the United States. Make them ever successful against 
error and oppression, and in defence of truth and a just liberty. Stir up 
thy strength, O Lord, and help us evermore ; for thou givest not always 
the battle to the strong, but canst save by many or by few. 

Be pleased to kindly behold us at the present time. We are assembled 
for the inauguration of a Memento that shall signalize and perpetuate to 
posterity, deeds of patriotism and valor, in the name of one, who in the 
flush of a marvelous victory, was not unmindful to whom of right the 
praise belonged, but ere the smoke of battle had passed away, could 
calmly and gratefully write,— "It has pleased the Almighty to grant to 
the arms of the United States a signal victory over their enemies on this 
Lake ! " 

Great God we thank thee for this confession ; it is to thy honor and 
glory, displaying an humble trust in Thee as the xirm of never-failing 
strength in the strife of War. Give us men of such stamp and character, 
to lead our armies and defend our liberties, that of us it may be justly 
said,— "Happy is that people that is in such a case, yea happy is that 
people whose God is the Lord." 

Shield, we pray thee. Merciful Father, this monument from, mutation, 
and escaping the hand of violence, may time itself deal gently with it. 
May it long remam to memorize what in a day, the great God once did 
for this ISTation. 

Reverently may we listen to the words, to be delivered to us at this 
time. While they shall fall gratefully upon the ear, may they also prove 
Instructive to the heart. 

Favorably regard the various bodies here assembled, looking benign- 
ly on this great brotherhood of Free and Accepted Masons. 

Guide and prosper them in the noble works of Faith, Hope and Char- 
ity. Let them not cease their care and dilligence till the last tear shall 
be wiped from the eye of sorrow, and the last burden removed from the 
heart oppressed. And when the Royal Master with the stamp of Fate, 
shall bid them present their work for inspection, may they be able to 
present good work such as he shall approve, and being counted worthy, 
be received into the blissful presence of Him who sits enthroned in 
Endless Light. 

Let nothing occur to mar the harmony and honor of this occasion. 



38 

Having enjoyed the fellowsliip of each others soeiet}^, protected by thy 
merciful providence, may we all be permitted to return in safet}- to our 
respective homes. 

God, our refuge and strength take us henceforth under thy shelter- 
ing hand, teaching us so to number our daj^s, that we may apply our 
hearts unto wisdom, and having served our day and generation according 
to thy will, may we fall asleep, cheered by the imperishable truth— "The 
memory of the just is blessed !" 

And now be pleased to unite our hearts and voices in the utterance of 
the divine words of our Lord and Saviour — 

"Our Father- who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy king- 
dom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day 
our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who 
trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from 
evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever and 
ever. Amex. 

At the conclusion of the Prayer, the Sculptor, Mr. William 
Walcutt, entered the railed enclosure and unveiled the statue. 
The moment the statue stood revealed in all its beauty, a sudden 
hush passed through the crowd, then an exclamation of sur- 
prised delight, followed by. a tremenduous burst of applause and 
vociferous cheering. The weather at this moment was beautiful- 
ly clear, and showed the magnificent work of genius to great 
advantage. The triumph of the artist was complete, and that 
must indeed have been the proudest moment of Mr. Walcutt's 
life. 

Loud calls were made for Walcutt, and as soon as he reached 
the stand he made a brief, handsome and fitting response. 

MR. walcutt's address. 

1 thank you for this kind expression of your approbation. The 
execution of a public statue is the severest ordeal through which a 
sculptor can pass. As it is ever before the eyes of the world, it must 
never weary by its constant presence, but should always give new 
pleasure to the beholder, and be able to live down the test of criticism, 
or be a failure. 

The design of this monument as you all know, is to perpetuate the 
fame of the immortal Perry. The two figures on either side of the 
pedestal — the sailor boy and the midshipman — are merely accessory, 
and assist in giving the whole a naval character. The alto-relievo on 
the front illustrates the perilous passage of the Commodore in the open 
boat from the Lawrence to the Niagai'a. 



39 

I have endeavored in my statue of Commodore Peery to convey a 
two-fold sense : 

Obviously, it is the Commander, brave and confident, giving clirections 
to his men while watching through the smoke of battle the effect of his 
broadsides upon the enemj^ 

Figuratively, it is the impersonation of the triumphant hero, gazing 
with pride and enthusiasm over the beautiful land he saved by his 
valor, and pointing to the lake as if reminding us of the scene of his 
victory. 

No sculptor ever had a nobler subject, and if I have succeeded, as it 
were, in raising him from his ashes, so as to give you a representation so 
perfect — that these, his honored companions — the few survivors of that 
glorious day, may be able to recognize their gallant leader, Oliver 
Hazard Perry, then I am content. 

Three cheers for Walcutt, three more for Ohio, and three 
more for Rhode Island, were given with a will. The Chairman 
of the Monument Committee, Hon. Haevey Rice, then 
presented the Statue, in the name of the Committee, to the city 
of Cleveland. Mayor Senter in a speech of great beauty, 
eloquently delivered, acce]3ted the work in the name of the city. 

MAYOR SENTER's ACCEPTAI^CE OF THE STATUE GIST BEHALF OF THE CITY. 

Gentlemen of the Committee :— As Mayor of the City of 
Cleveland, and in behalf of its Trustees, I hereby accept from you this 
memorial Statue of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, to be for 
this our goodly city an ornament, and to our citizens an honor for all 
coming time. The task imposed upon you has been thoroughly and 
completely done. From the first rough sketch laid before the City 
Council some years since, to the present hour, when you here present 
this elegant monument as the completion of your labors and the 
fulfillment of your trust, you have applied yourselves to your duties 
with a zeal akin to patriotism, and it will not, I trust, when the days 
of your lives merge into the twilight of death, be among the least 
grateful of the reminiscences of the past, that you have been so 
instrumental in securing to the city of your home so elegant a work of 
art, and so enduring a memorial of great deeds. Much however, as 
there may be of honor attaching to you for the accomplishment of this 
work, the meed of praise is due also to our fellow citizens, the Messrs. 
Jones, who have with such good judgment carried out, nay more, 
anticipated the design and wishes of the Committee. The interest they 
have displayed in the work, and the energy they have shown in 
surmounting the obstacles in the way of its prompt completion, 



40 

characterize and establish their acts as the most acceptable and 
enduring manifestations of public spirit. The names of those whose 
almost divine imagination and exquisitely skillful hands have designed 
and fashioned the images of human grace, beauty and strength, and 
who have recorded the acts of heroes in never perishable monuments, 
have ever found a place in history, as men whom Genius has stamped 
as her own. Can it be, then, that the name of Walcutt, will be 
forgotten, while this image of heroism and bravery, so divinely grand, 
so noble and so perfect, withstands the attaci^s of the elements, or while 
memory endures? It pleases me not so to believe. 

To you, my fellow citizens, therefore, now attaches a high and peculiar 
honor. You are the first of all the communities tliat populate the 
shores of the great lakes, to erect a monument to the memory of the 
man whose bravery and daring on this day, near half a century since^ 
drove the enemy from our waters and from our frontiers, and secured a 
peace and quiet, which from that day to this, has remained undisturbed. 
This pleasant city was then scarcely more than a small outpost, and this 
our populous and wealthy State was but an insignificant member of the 
great confederation. 

It is flattering, therefore, to our refined sense of gratitude, that this 
metropolis of Northern Ohio, though risen to high rank in the list of the 
wealthy and luxurious cities of the land, should not be unmindful of 
the debt she owes one who protected her in her infancy and poverty. 

Republics are ungrateful, it is said, but the crime of ingratitude rests 
not upon us. 

This miniature republic, this municipality of Cleveland, proves by 
this day's act, that the pulses of her citizens beat high with devotion to 
the memory of him, whom not she alone, but our common Union, 
should ever hold in grateful remembrance. 

The fitness of the design, and the elegance of the execution of this 
monument, it belongs not to me specially to mention. It stands forth 
in the broad light of day, the exponent of its own merits. It challenges 
the criticism of the most critical, and it finds its superior, if such indeed 
it have, only in the classic lands of the old world. 

Its location is eminently proper. Surrounded, as it is, by the speaking 
evidences ot the refinement, enterprise and wealth of to-day, and looking 
forth as it does, upon the eternal and unchangeable expanse of the blue 
lake, it stands an enduring record of the heroic past, and a beautiful 
testimonial of the grateful present. 

The breezes that fanned the waving locks of the youthful commander, 
on that deck covered with the dead and the dying, play as freshly now 
around his sculptured brow, in this green park, in which nought is 
visible save the emblems of life and peace. The waters that were then 
reddened with the blood of patriots, commingled with that of a 
powerful foe, still flow as then, not at the feet of the hero living, but 
by the shores upon which stands the marble form of the hero dead. 



41 

The winds that wafted the puny fleet onward to deadly strife, Mow 
now as tlien, but tliey fill no sails but those of huge argosie's of 
commerce ; and proudly will the gallant mariner who walks tlie deck, 
point, as he is borne along, to the city, that has thus honored the name 
and the fame of his hero brother. 

Proud may you be, fellow citizens, that this day has come to you, 
for such comes not, even once, to the life of every man. Here are 
gathered together for the first time since that day of blood, and carnage, 
and victory, men who parted scarred with w^ouuds and wearied with 
strife for their country's honor and their country's peace. It is a proud 
day for them and for you, that the Past and the Present may thus meet 
to do honor to the illustrious dead ; proud for them that their eyes may 
rest upon this sublime testimonial of a grateful posterity ; and proud for 
you that it is permitted you to pay your respects to them before they 
depart to receive their eternal reward for their patriotism. 

Here, this day, meet an elder and a younger sister in the Confederacy. 
The ocean greets the lake, and both join hands with the beautiful river, 
in the shadow of the Memorial Monument of a brave defender of the 
Union. Hither have come, from the hills, of the East and from the 
Plains of the West, from city and from town, from the 'shop and from 
the field, the noble and the humble of the land. White hairs that were 
black in the days when the great deeds we commemorate were done, 
are mingled in the crowd before me, with those that crown heads that 
have nought save a present and a future. The kindly face of the 
matron who bade her boys God speed, when the drum beat to arms, 
looks up by the side of the younger one whose bright eye beams with 
confident hope that she too may as bravely do the duties of her time 
and her generation. 

The subject is endless in its suggestions, but time passes, and you will 
allow me, fellow citizens, nay, you will demand of me, that I give 
place to the gifted man, our guest, to whom the history of the past is 
as familiar as the events of the present, and whose graceful pen has 
made the record of brave deeds more attractive than thrilling fiction. 

The Orator of the Day, Hon. Geoege Banceoft was next 
introduced, and delivered the Oration, which was as might 
have been expected, an elegant composition. 

HON. GEORGE BANCROFT'S ORATION. 

Men op Ohio ! Fellow Citizens op the United States -.—The 
defence of our country is not a burden to be shunned, but an inalienable 
right which we are to assert, and a sacred duty which we are to fulfill. 
The heroic deeds of those who, in manly battle, have stood up for the 
moral existence of the nation, and given the greatest proof of their love 



42 

for it by perilling tlieir lives in its defence, deserve to be commemorated 
by works of art, that the evidence of their virtue may "be ever present 
to the eye of the people. By our willing sympathy with their efforts, 
we make their glory our own; by contemplating tlieir actions with 
love we renew in our own breasts the just courage with which they 
glowed, and gain the ennobling consciousness that we too have the 
power within us to imitate their example. 

Citizens of Cleveland, executing a purpose which had its origin in 
then' own municipal government, cheered by the patriotic zeal of an 
artist, who is a native of their State, and sustained by the confiding 
energy of their spirited contractors, have raised the monument which 
has just been unveiled. Before the myriads here assembled this statue 
is now dedicated to the Union in the name of the peopU of Ohio. 

The inhabitants of this Commonwealth are allied bj' their descent 
of common blood with nearly all the older United States, and all the 
most highly civilized countries of the world. The homes of their 
ancestors are to be found in the Old Dominion and all the States to 
the north of it, in the British Isles and Ireland, in the Iberian 
peninsula, in France, in Italy; and of all the Continental States, 
especially in Germany; so that in addition to the mysterious affinity 
of human nature with truth -. and freedom, no word can be uttered 
in any part of the cultivated world for right and liberty, but you may 
claim in it a family interest of your own. It is the sons of your 
forefathers of whom you expect that the tomb and the birth place 
of Virgil will be secured to the guardianship of the free ; it is your 
brothers and your kindred, who are to take the only worthy vengeance 
for what our revolutionary fathers suffered from the petty princes of 
a now fallen empire, by inciting and teaching its immortal people to 
construct a free and united Germany. 

Ohio rises before the world as the majestic witness to the beneficient 
reality of the democratic principle. A commonwealth younger in years 
than he who addresses you, not long ago having no visible existence but 
in the emigrant wagons, now numbers almost as large a population as 
that of all England, when it gave birth to Raleigh, and Bacon, and 
Shakespeare, and began its continuous attempts at colonizing America. 
Each one of her inhabitants gladens in the fruit of his own toil. She 
possesses wealth that must be computed by thousands of millions ; and 
her frugal, industrious and benevolent people, at once daring and pru- 
dent, unfettered in the use of their faculties, restless in enterprise, do not 
squander the accumulations of their industry in vain show, but ever go 
on to render the earth more productive, more beautiful and more con- 
venient to man ; mastering for mechanic purposes the un wasting forces 
of nature ; keeping exemplar}^ good faith with their public creditors ; 
building in half a century more churches than all England has raised 
since this continent was discovered ; endowing and sustaining universi- 
ties and other semuiaries of learning. Conscious of the dynamic power 



43 

of mind in action as the best of fortresses, Ohio keeps no standing anny 
but that of her school teachers, of whom she pays more than twenty 
thousand ; she provides a libraiy for every school district ; she counts 
among her citizens more than thi-ee hundi'ed thousand men who can 
bear arms, and she has more than twice the number of children regis- 
tered as students in her public schools. Here the purity of domestic 
morals is maintained by the virtue and dignity of woman. In the heart 
of the temperate zone of this continent, in the land of the corn, of wheat, 
and the vine, the eldest daughter of the ordinance of seventeen hundred 
and eighty seven, already the 3'oung mother of other commonwealths, that 
bid fair to vie with her in beauty, rises in her loveliness and glory, 
crowned with cities, and challenges the admiration of the world. Hither 
should come the politcal skeptic, who in his dispair is ready to strand the 
Ship of State; for here he may learn how to guide it safely on the 
waters. Should some modern Telemachus, heir to a island empire, touch 
these shores, here he may observe the vitality and strength of the prin- 
ciple of popular power; take from the book of experience the lesson that 
in public alfaii's, great and happy results follow in proportion to faith in 
the efficacy of that principle ; and learn to rebuke ill-advised counselors 
who pronounce the most momentous and most certain of pohtical truths, 
a delusion and a failure. 

This anniversary of the great action of Oli^'er Hazard Perry, is set 
apart for inaugurating a monument to his fame. Who has not heard 
how gallantly, forty seven years ago, the young hero, still wtak from a 
wasting fever, led his squadron to battle ? As if shielded by a higher 
power, he encountered death on his right hand, death on his left, ever in 
advance, almost alone, for two hours fighting his ship, till it became a 
wreck, so that but one of its guns could be used any longer, and more 
than four-fiflhs of his crew lay around him wounded or killed ; then 
unharmed, standing as beseemed his spirit, he passed in a boat to the un- 
injured Niagara, unfurled his flag, bore down within pistol shot of his 
enemy, poured into them broadsides starboard and broadsides port, and 
while the sun was still high above the horizon, left no office to be done 
but that of mercy to the vanquished. If the comparison does not 
seem fanciful, I will call his conduct during those eventful hours a 
complete lyric poem, perfect in all its parts. Though he was carried 
away and raised above himself by the power with which he was pos- 
sessed, the passion of his inspiration was tempered by the serene self- 
possession of his faultless courage ; his will had the winged rapidity of 
fiery thought, and yet observed with deliberateness the combinations of 
harmony and the proportions of measured order. 

Nor may you admit due honors to the virtues of the unrecorded dead ; 
not as mourners who requu-e consolation, but with a clear perception of 
the glory of their end. The debt of nature all must pay. To die, if 
need be, in defence of the country is a common obligation ; it is granted 
to few to exchange life for a victory so full of benefits to theii- fellow men. 



44 

These are the disinterested, unnamed martyrs, who, without hope of 
fame or gain, gave up their lives in testimony to the all pervading love of 
country, and left to our statesmen the lesson to demand of others nothing 
but what is right and to submit to no wrong. 

" We have met the enemy," were Perry's words as he reported the 
result of the battle. And who was that " enemy ?" A nation speaking 
another tongue ? A state abandoned to the caprices of despotism ? A 
people inimical to human freedom? No! they were the nation from 
whom most of us sprung, using the same copious language, cherishing 
after their fashion the love of liberty, enjoying internally the freest 
government that the world had known before our own. But the external 
policy of their government has been less controlled by regard for right 
than their domestic administration ; and a series of wanton aggressions 
upon us, useless to England, condemned now by her own statesmen 
and judges as violations of the law of nature and the law of nationsi 
forced into a conflict two people whose common sympathies should 
never have been disturbed. And is this aggressive system forever to be 
adventured by her rulers ? How long is the overshadowing aristocratic 
element in her government to stand between the natural affections of 
kindred nations ? 

Even now a British minister, whose past career gave hope of greater 
fairness, is renewing the old system of experiments on the possible con- 
tingency of the pusillanimity, the indifference, or the ignorance of some 
future American administration, and disputes our boundary in the North- 
west, though the words of the treaty are too plain to be perverted, and 
though the United States claims no more than the British Secretarj^ of 
State who offered the treaty explained as its meaning before it was signed. 
British soldiers are now encamped on part of our territory which bears the 
name of Washington. With a moderation that should have commanded re- 
spect the United States waived their better claim to Vancouver, and even to 
any part of it ; thinking it conducive to peace to avoid two jurisdictions 
on different parts of the same island ; and in return for this forbearance, 
the British minister, yielding perhaps to some selfish clamor of a trading 
company, as much against British interests as against American rights, 
reproduces on an American Island the inconvenience of divided occupa- 
tion, which it was the very purpose of the treaty to avoid. If the hum 
of the ximerican seaboard is in part the echo of sentiments from abroad, 
here the unmixed voice of America may be heard, as it pronounces that 
it is too late to wrest territory from the United States hy prevarication, 
by menace, or by force. From the English dockyards it is a long voyage 
to San Juan ; the only good land route across the continent lies south of 
Lake Superior ; in a few years there will be three Ohios on the shores of 
the Pacific. It is England's interest as well as duty to give effect to the 
treaty as it was interpreted by her own minister to ours. Your voices on 
tliis memorable day give the instruction to our government to abide by 
the treaty faithfully, on the condition that Britain will do the same ; but 



45 

the treaty must Mud neitlier party or botli — must be executed in good 
faith or be cancelled. The men "who honor the memory of Perky ^-ill 
always know how to defend the domain of their country. 

Has any European statesman been miscounting the strength of this 
nation, by substituting a reminiscence of our feeble confederation for the 
present efficient and almost perfect organism of the body politic ? Has 
any foreign ruler been so foolish as to listen with creduhty to the tales of 
impending disunion ? Every man of the people of Ohio, this great cen- 
tral highway of national travel, will without one exception, tell the 
calumniator or the unbeliever, that the voices of discontent among us are 
but the evanescent vapors of men's breath ; that our little domestic strifes 
are no more than momentary distm-bances on the surface, easily settled 
among ourselves : that the love of Union has wound its cords indissolu- 
bly round the whole American people. 

So then our last word shall be for the Uxiox. The Union will guard 
the farce of its defenders, and evermore protect our entire territory ; it 
will keep alive for mankind the beacon lights of popular liberty and 
power : it will dissuade nations in a state of unripeness from attempting 
to found republican governments before they spring up naturally by an 
inward law ; and its mighty heart will throb with dehght at every true 
advance in any part of the world towards republican happiness and 
freedom. 

THE PEESEXTATIOX. 

After tlie Historical Address by Hon. Geoege Baxceoft, 
the Wayne Guards, of Erie, were drawn np in front of the 
stand, and, in behalf of the Company, Capt. McLaust presented 
Mr. Banceoft with a beautiful cane. The presentation was 
made in a few remarks, in very good taste. Capt. McLaix said 
the cane was made of wood from Com. Peeey's flag ship, the 
Lawrence. The Wayne Guards, he said were proud to honor 
the hero and the historian whose graceful pen preserved untar- 
nished the lustre of the heroic deeds of 1813. 

Mr. Baxceoft accepted the gift in a felicitous sj^eech of short 
duration. He was happy to receive the memento from the 
Guards, and particularly as they bore the name of one ever to 
be revered — brave in battle, correct and hind in private life. 
He should keep the cane while he lived, and bequeath it to his 
son with an injunction to cherish it and remember that it came 
to him with the benediction of the Guards. It would comfort 
the few years of old age yet left to him. 

The whole transaction passed off very pleasantly, and at the 



46 

close of Mr. Ba:n"croft's remarks lie was greeted by clieers, 
which were- repeated for the "Wayne Guards. The cane is 
mounted with gold, and bears the following inscriptions : 

" Wayne Guards, of Erie, to Hon. Geo. Bancroft. Presented at the 
inanguratiou of the Perry Statue, Sept. 10, 1860." 

" Sept. 10, 1813. ' We have met the enemy and they are ours.' — O. H. 
Perry." 

"Perry's Fleet was built at, sailed from, and returned to Erie." 

" American patriotism embalms the memories of its heroes." 



Dr. UsHEE, Paesoxs, the Surgeon of Peeey's flag ship Law- 
nce, was 
of Lake Erie. 



rence, was introduced and gave his reminiscences of the battle 



DR. USHER PARSOXS' ADDRESS. 

Mr. President : — In responding to your flattering invitation to ad- 
dress this vast assemblage, vain would be any endeavor, after the rich 
banquet we have enjoyed, to entertain you with historic or classic allu- 
sions, or with the graces of a polished style. Mine, sir, is the more hum- 
ble and appropriate task to describe briefly the battle of Lake Erie. A 
story so often told must fail to interest most of you, and I should decline 
repeating it, but for the expressed wish of many to hear it from the lips 
of the last surviving commissioned oflicer of Perry's squadron. 

Prior to the 10th of September, 1813, the United States squadron on 
this lake, commanded by Commodore Perry, anchored at Put-in-Ba}^, 
which is formed by a cluster of islands, fifty miles from this place. The 
enemy were in the port of Maiden, forty miles farther distant, preparing 
to meet and give ns battle. 

Our crews were reduced in number of men by a prevailing fever, 
which induced General Harrison to send ns thirty-sis volunteers from 
his army. Some of these still live, and are here present. 

Within a day or two previous to the fight, Perry called a council of 
commanders, and assigned to each his station in the order of battle, and 
concluded his orders by stating his intention to bring the enemj- to close 
quarter, in order not to lose by the short range of his carronades, and the 
last emphatic injunction with which he dismissed them was, that he 
could not, in case of difficulty, advise them better than- in the words of 
Lord Nelson, "In case you lay your enemy close alongside, you cannot 
be out of your place." 

Early in the morning of the 10th, a cry came from a masthead, ''' Sail, 
lio ! " All hands sprang from their hammocks, and ere they could dress 
and reach the deck, six sail were announced. Signal was made to the 
squadron, ''enemy in sight,'^ ''get under way,'^ and soon the hoarse sound 
of the trumpets, and the shrill pipes of the boatswains rejG.i ded 



47 

tlu'ongliout the fleet Tvitli, " All hands up anchoi\ alioy ! " After some 
detention by adverse winds, we cleared the islands, and directed our 
course toward the enemy, distant at 10 o'clock, about five miles. 

The American squadron consisted of nine vessels, carrying 54 guns 
and 400 men, and the British of six vessels, carrying 63 guns and 511 
men. The line of battle was arranged with the Scorpion and Ariel 
ahead, followed by the flag ship Lawrence, Caledonia, Niagara, and four 
small vessels, and they were ordered to keep within half a cable's length 
of each other. By this arrangement it was understood that the Lawrence 
should fight the flagship Detroit, Commodore against Commodore, the 
Caledonia the Lady Prevost, the iSTiagara the Queen, and the four small 
vessels astern attack the Hunter and Little Belt. The Scorpion and Ariel 
were to support the Lawrence, and fight the Chippewa, the head vessel 
of the British line. 

The Commodore now produced the burgee or fighting flag, hitherto 
concealed in the ship. It was inscribed with large white letters on a blue 
ground, legible throughout the squadron, '•'• Don't give v.p the ship^"" the 
last words of the expu'ing Lawrence, and now to be hoisted at the mast- 
head of the ship bearing his name. The Commodore made a spmted 
appeal to the crew, and up went the flag to the fore royal amid hearty 
cheers, repeated throughout the squadron, and the drums and fifes struck 
up the thrilling call, "J.Z/ hands to quarters.^'' The hatches or passage ways 
from below to the deck were closed, excepting the main one in the center, 
through which balls might be passed up to the cannon, and the wounded 
down to the surgeon's apartment Over this apartment was an opening, 
or skylight, ten inches square, to pass cartridges through from the maga- 
zine, and to let in light to the surgeon. The floor of this apartment was 
level with the water outside, and left the surgeon and the wounded quite 
as much exposed to the cannon balls of the enemy as those were on deck. 

Every preparation being made, and every man at his station, a profound 
silence reigned for more than an hour — the most trying part of the whole 
scene. It was like the stillness that precedes the hurricane. The two 
squadrons moved on in their respective lines, graduall}" approximating 
till a quarter before tv\'elve, when the awful stillness and suspense were 
relieved by a shot aimed at the Lawrence from the Detroit, about one 
mile distant. Peert signalled to the squadron to make more sail and 
come into close action, at the same time pressing forward the Lawrence 
to within canister distance of the Detroit, and then opened upon her a ra- 
pid and destructive fire. The Caledonia followed the Lawrence in gallant 
style, and maintained her position nobly. The Scorpion and Ariel being 
small, attracted less firing from the enemy, whilst their large guns in 
constant play did great execution. The Niagara failing to grapple her 
antagonist the Queen, the latter vessel shot ahead and joined the Detroit 
in firing upon the Lawrence, and finally made a complete wreck of her. 
Fortunalely, however, Peery had escaped injury, and stepping into a 
boat he ordered the fightmg flag to be brought to him, and then pushed 



48 

off to the Niagara, wliicli had by this time, come up nearly abreast of the 
Lawrence, but further from her than the enemy's flag ship Detroit was 
on the opposite side. Perry reached her deck, exposed on his way to 
balls and musketrj^, nscathed. He found her a fresh ship, with only two 
or three persons injured, and every cannon in working order. 

Her commander resigned the deck to him and hastened to press for- 
ward the four small vessels that were astern, which were dull sailers, and 
with the utmost exertion of their crews were unable to keep up in the 
place assigned them in the line. The Lawrence now lagged behind, and 
hauled down her flag in token of surrender, which drew forth boisterous 
cheers on board the enemy's -ships. But Perry immediately changed 
the course of the Niagara from the one in which she was steering, making 
nearly a right angle, and crossing ahead of the Lawrence, bore down, 
head foremost, to the enemy's line determined to break through it and 
take a raking position. The Detroit attempting to turn so as to keep her 
broadside to the Niagara, and avoid being raked. But in doing this, she 
fell against the Queen, and got entangled in her rigging, and thus were 
exposed both British ships to a raking and destructive fire from the Ni- 
agara ; whilst heav}^ blows were received from the small vessels astern, 
which had by this time come up within good distance for effective shots, 
and the two ships were unable to fire in return. Their commanders were 
thus compelled to haul down their colors in token of submission or sink. 
Perry then shot ahead to the Lady Provost, which having been crippled 
in her rudder, had drifted out of her place in the line to the leeward, and 
was pressing forward towards the head of the British line, to support the 
two ships. One broadside from the Niagara silenced her batter}^ The 
Hunter next hauled down her flag, and the two smaller vessels, in at- 
tempting to escape, were overtaken by the Scorpion and Tripp, and thus 
ended the action after three o'clock. 

Let us now advert for a moment to the scenes exhibited in the 
Lawrence, of which I was an eye witness. The wounded began to come 
down before she opened her fire. Soon, however, the storm of battle 
burst forth, in deafening thunders of our own broadsides, in the crash of 
balls dashing through our timbers and bulwarks, and in the shrieks of 
the wounded. These were brought down for aid faster than I could 
attend to them, further than to stay the bleeding, or to support shattered 
limbs v^ith splints, and pass them forward upon the berth deck. In less 
than two hours few men were left on deck in working order, and the six 
men stationed with me at first to assist in moving the wounded, were 
called away, one by one, to work the guns, and even some of the wounded 
themselves crawled back to the deck, to lend a feeble hand in pulling at 
the last guns. 

At this time the surgeon's room presented a scene truly horrible. There 
lay the lifeless bodies of Midshipmen Laub and Ciias. Poiiig, both killed 
in the Surgeon's room after having had their wounds dressed. Laub had 
hardly left my hands, when a cannon ball struck him in the side, dashing 



49 

him against tlie wall, and cutting his body nearly in twain. Lieutenant 
Brooks, son of the Governor of Massachusetts, an elegant and accom- 
plished officer, lay with his hip mashed by a cannon ball, of which he 
died before the battle closed. Hambleton, the intimate friend of Perry, 
lay bleeding, his shoulder being broken. Clx\xton, a promising officer, 
lay with his shoulder and arm shot away, and doomed soon to die, and 
several others, with limbs crushed and fiesh lacerated, all lay weltering 
in their blood, and writhing in agony, and calling for cold water to 
relieve the sense of faintness. Whilst I was intent upon stopping the 
flow of blood, a new visitor came from the deck, reporting that the 
Commodore had gone to the Niagara, and that our own ship, unable to 
fight longer, was hauling down her colors. This added wailings of 
despair to the groans of the wounded. Death or Dartmoor prison seemed 
inevitable, and some were clamorous for sinking the ship, and all going 
down together. But in a few minutes more a cry came from the deck 
that " the ship has struck ! " I leaped upon deck, calling out, " what 
ship has struck ?" and saw the Detroit's flag actually hauled down, and 
the Queen's flag coming down. It was enough ! The day was decided ! ! 
The enemy beaten ! ! ! and I rushed back to the wounded, shouting 
" victory ! victory ! ! " 

As the smoke cleared away, the two squadrons seemed mingled 
together undistinguishably. The shattered Lawrence lying to the wind- 
ward was once more able to hoist her flag, which was cheered by a few 
feeble voices, making a melancholy sound compared with the tremendous 
cheers that preceded the battle. The shot holes between wind and water 
were immediately plugged to prevent our sinking, and the masts secured 
from falling overboard. 

Perry forthwith dispatched two messages to Harrison and to the 
Secretary of the Navy, remarkable for their pith and brevity. To 
Harrison he saj^s, " We have met the enemy, and they are ours : two 
ships, two brigs, one sloop, and one schooner." To the Secretary — " It 
has pleased the Almighty to give to the arms of the United States a signal 
victory over their enemies on this lake. The British squadron, consisting 
of two ships, two brigs, two sloops and one schooner, have this moment 
surrendered to the force under my command, after a sharp conflict." 

The proud, though painful duty, of taking possession of the conquered 
ships, was now performed. The Detroit was nearly dismantled, and the 
destruction and carnage had been dreadful. The Queen was in a condi- 
tion little better — every commander and second in command, says 
Barclay, in his official report, was either killed or wounded. The whole 
number killed in the British fleet, was forty-one, and of wounded, ninety- 
four. In the American fleet, twenty-seven killed, and ninety-six wounded. 
Of the twent^^-seven killed, twenty -two were on board the Lawrence, and 
of the ninety-six wounded, sixty one were on board the same ship, making 
eighty-three killed and wounded, out of 101 reported fit for duty in the 
Lawrence on the morning of the battle. On board the Niagara were 
4 



50 

two killed and twenty-three wounded, making twenty-five, and of these 
twenty-two were killed or wounded after Perry had command of her. 

About four o'clock, a boat was discovered approaching the Lawrence. 
Soon the Commodore was recognized in her, who was returning to 
resume the command of his tattered ship, determined that the remnant 
of her crew should have the privilege of witnessing the formal surrender 
of the British officers. It was a time of conflicting emotions when he 
stepped upon the deck. The battle was won, and he was safe, but the 
deck was slippery v>ith blood, and strewed with the bodies of twenty 
officers and men, some of whom sat at table with us at our last meal, 
and the ship^ resounded with the groans of the wounded. Those of us 
who were spared and able to walk, met at the gangwaj'' to welcome him 
on board, but the salutation was a silent one on both sides — a grasp of 
the hand — our hearts were too full for speech — not a word could find 
utterance. 

Perry walked aft, where his first remark was addressed to his intimate 
friend, Ha31BLEtox, then lying wounded on the deck. " The prayers of 
my wife," said he, '■have prevailed in saving me." Then casting his 
eyes about, he inquhed — " Where is my brother ? " This brother was a 
young midshipman of thirteen years. He had during the battle acted as 
aid, running with orders to difi'erent parts of tlie ship ; for you must 
know that in the din and uproar of battle, orders can hardly be heard at 
three feet distance. We made a general stir to look him up, not without 
fears that he had been knocked overboard. But he was soon found in 
his berth, asleep, exhausted by the exercise and excitement of the day. 
And now the British officers arrived, one from each vessel, to tender 
their submission, and with it their swords. When they approached, 
picking their way among the wreck and carnage of the deck, with their 
hilts towards Perry, they tendered them to his acceptance. With a dig- 
nified and solemn air, and with a low tone of voice, he requested them 
to retain their side arms; inquired with deep concern for Commodore 
Barclay and the wounded officers ; tendered to them every comfort his 
ship afforded, and expressed his regret that he had not a spare medical 
officer to send them; that he only had one on duty for the fleet, and that 
one had his hands full. 

In a few days the two Commodores parted, never more to meet each 
other, nor with General Harrison. Tokens and messages of friendship 
however, were often interchanged between them. 

Perry served two years as Commander of the Java, taking with him 
the survivors of the flag-ship Lawrence. He after this commanded a 
squadron in the West Indies, where he died of fever in 1819. Possessed 
of high toned morals, he was above the dissipation and sensuality preva- 
lent with some officers of his day. His literary acquircui(5nts were 
respectable, and his taste refined. He united the graces of a manly 
beauty to a lion heart, a sound mind, a safe judgment, and a firmness of 
purpose which nothing could shake. 



51 

Citizens of Cleveland^ and of Ohio! I rejoice to meet you on this 
interesting occasion, and to witness the demonstrations of gratitude and 
respect shown to the memory of Rhode Island's gallant son. His statue 
which you this day inaugurate, will perpetuate to future generations the 
record of your generous munificence and enlightened patriotism, as well 
as of his glorious achievement. It will also strengthen the cordial and 
fraternal sympathy existing between Ohio and Rhode Island, which 
commenced in 1813, in the glorious victory we are now celebratino-. 
Then it was that a squadron commanded, officered and manned chiefly 
by natives of that State, came to your rescue, and near your defenceless 
shores captured a combined British and savage foe, who threatened fire 
and sword and tomahawk to the then infant settlement of Cleveland 
and of the whole lake shore. The few log cabins which then dotted 
this place, and sent up their curling smoke amoug the rugged arms of 
majestic trees, that had been girdled by the pioneers of the forest, soon 
disappeared, and in their place rose a populous and thrifty town, which 
your enterprise and industry have enlarged and adorned, and converted 
into a beautiful city — the glory of the west ! And now, when you are 
ready to ornament it with monuments and statues, commemorative of 
the glorious deeds of patriots and heroes, your thoughts first revert to 
the deliverer of these shores, the lamented Perry, whose beautiful 
statue now greets our eyes. And 3-ou have kindly invited hither the 
citizens of his native State to assist in the ceremonies of its inauguration. 
Accordingly, our Governor and staff', legislators, generals and prominent 
citizens, under the escort of our Light Infantry — the pride of Rhode 
Island — have come hither (and our whole population were desirous to 
join us.) We have come, citizens of Cleveland, to take you by the hand, 
and, in the name of the people of Rhode Island, to thank you most 
heartily for the distinguished honor you have done our State by thus 
commemorating the noble achievement of her gallant son. 

•' O, thus be it ever when freemen shall stand, 
Between our loved home and the war's desolation," 

that Ohio and Rhode Island shall be found side by side, battling the foes 
of their country, and under leaders, whether on land, or lake^ or ocean 
wave, equal to Harrison or Perry; and when the storm of war is 
hushed, and the reign of mild peace is restored, may the warriors then 
meet as we are met on this glorious anniversary, to grasp hands in 
cordial friendship, and unite in paying enduring honors to the illustrious 
and victorious dead, by marble structures equal in beauty to the one 
before us. 

This statue is a work of rare artistic skill. The marble, drawn from 
classic Italy, has a fine grain, and hue, and polish, and when struck 
gives the true ring of a pure and durable material. Its magnificent 
pedestal is taken from the bank of the Pawcatuck, in Rhode Island, thus 
associating the grateful and pleasing ideas of a noble marble Statue, 



52 

erected by citizens of Oliio, to perpetuate tlie name and fame of Perry, 
on a Rliode Island basis — ideas that in all future time will stir and warm 
tlie hearts of the sons and daughters of that State who in their westward 
l^ilgrimages will stop to survey and admire this beautiful specimen of 
native art. The likeness of Perry, considering the limited sources of 
information available to the artist, is more accurate and striking than I 
expected to see. The conception of his attitude, his martial bearing and 
appropriate expression, is highly successful. Of his drapery I have a 
w^ord of explanation to offer. You here see him in his usual official 
dress. But, in battle, you must know that all official insignia are laid 
aside, and the dress of a common sailor is assumed, to avoid being a 
mark for the enemy's musketr}^ in the tops. Perry wore in the fight a 
a blue cotton round-jacket, which surrounded as brave a heart as ever 
beat in human frame ; and here is the identical garment. 

Old companions in tlie conflict^ a little remnant of us still live, and are 
permitted once more to take each other by the hand. But how different 
the present scene from the one it commemorates, fought this day, this 
hour, forty-seven years ago. Then were our ears stunned by the 
thunders of a hundred cannon, dealing out death and destruction by 
opposing squadrons, while our companions were falling and rolling in 
blood around us. We have passed through many vicissitudes since that 
eventful day, and having outlived the companions of our youth, now find 
ourselves among strangers of another generation. Desolate and lonely 
though we feel, and know we are near 

"That undiscovered country from wliose bourne 
No traveler returns," 

yet the tokens of assurance this day afforded, that our toil and peril of 
life are not forgotten, and that the memory of our much beloved 
commander is still fresh and precious in the affections of a generous and 
grateful people, stir and warm our hearts, and make us joyful and happy! 
Old friends, I bid you an affectionate farewell. 



CAPT. BKOWNELL. 

After tlie delivery of Dr. Parsons' address, Capt. Thomas 
Brownell, pilot of the Ariel in the battle of Lake Erie, was 
called upon. He thanked the people for their kind reception of 
himself and friends, but most of all for the beautiful Statue of 
their gallant leader. It was not necessary for him to speak — 
they had heard all about the battle, and he would only say he 
had a hand in it. 



53 

OLIVER HAZAED PEEEY. 

Olivee Hazaed Peeey, the only siTrviying son of Commodore 
Peeey, was upon tlie stand, and was called upon to speak. He 
said: 

I cordially thank your honor for your generous words in honor of the 
descendants of Commodore Perry. As his only son, I speak in behalf 
of all my family, to acknowledge the warm welcome with which my 
fellow citizens here assembled hare responded to yom' introduction of 
us. But I am aware, not to me personally, nor to the other members of 
my family, are these honors proffered. They are the spontaneous 
utterances of patriotic gratitude to the navy of the United States, of 
which my father was one of the providential vindicators in the second 
war of independence. This was specially the sailors' war, waged for them 
and for their rights. ''Sailors' Rights" was the motto borne at mast- 
head, and carried high above the smoke of every conflict. The war was 
their war — the country called upon them. Fully and nobly did they 
respond, and effectually did they accomplish the task, plucking from the 
diadem of England her cherished gem, "The Mistress of the Sea." 

The country has loved its navy ever smce. Need I recount its service? 
ISTeed I tell of the triumphant cruises of the "Constitution," scouring the 
seas, and returning from every cruise with the captured flag of an 
enemy's ship? Safe and unharmed, sir, from out every encounter and 
every peril — happy omen to the whole people that the Constitution itself 
will survive every political danger that may assail it. 

Need I speak the names of Hull, Bainbridge, Joxes and Stewart. 
Need I recount the deeds of the heroic Decatur ? (alas ! that he died so 
young, and such a death.) Need I recall to 3'our memories the name of 
Lawrence ? Alas ! that his sun of glory went down so soon, and yet 
without a cloud to dim its lustre, and in a splendor that has given the 
navy its proudest boast, with words that shall be its perpetual motto. 
Intrepid, magnanimous — a hero in every point, great even in death — he 
conferred upon the navy a renown that shall never perish. England 
herself acknowledged his greatness as a foe, when stepping far beyond 
her ordinary routine in similar cases, she conferred the honor of Knight- 
hood on his conquerer. 

I might continue, and repeat the names of Porter, the hero of the 
Pacific, McDo:s'OUGH, the hero of Champlain. The distinguished orator 
of the day has eloquently spoken of the events of Lake Erie, which we 
now commemorate. My long connection with the navj^, and my 
intimate acquaintance with the patriotic feelings and professional pride 
which possess and control both officers and men, and my earnest desire 
for its continued prosperity and untarnished fame, may pardon and even 
justify the allusions I have made to its exploits. 

To us, sir, as a commercial people, a powerful navy, far more so than 



64 

it is at present, is a position of necessity. We are, and must be a mari- 
time, as well as an agricultural and manufacturing people. Tlie very 
territory upon wbicli Providence lias placed us, imposes upon us this 
threefold character, in which lie the elements of our growth and success. 
With extended sea borders east on the Atlantic, and west on the PacitiCj 
with the great Gulf at the South, and these great lakes at the jSTorth, 
with mighty and deep rivers flowing throughout the land — rivers of 
such magnitude that the mightiest in Europe are but as brooks in com- 
parison, with all these around and within us, I repeat, we must be a 
maritime people, and having a commerce reaching Asia from our 
Western shore, and Europe and Africa from our Eastern, yieldiDg us the 
products of their toiling millions, so be spread Westward and Eastward 
all over the land, by those iron arms, that must, ere long, join the 
Atlantic and Pacific shores. 

What prosperty, what national greatness, is before us, if undivided 
love of one undivided country, shall unite all hearts and all hands, to 
promote and secure the common good of the great commonwealth, 
and as a maritime people we must have a navy to represent the Eepub- 
lic, to sustain our flag, to protect and defend our mercantile marine, 
wherever it may penetrate. 

The navy of the United States will be ever true to its history and its 
fame. Its future deeds shall be worthy its past encounters, and the story 
of every conflict shall repeat the record of the battle of Lake Erie in the 
famihar legend : — "We have met the enemy, and they are ours." 

Tlie gate of the enclosure was then opened, the leading 
Masonic officers entered, and in a beautiful and impressive 
manner performed the masonic ceremonies of dedication. 

ADDRESS OF GRAND MASTER, HORACE M. STOKES. 

Brethren of the Masonic Fraternity: — Prominent among the 
first lessons to the novitiate in our order, is the duty of patriotism. 
In the State we are to be quiet and peaceable citizens, true to our 
country and just to our government. Forbidden by our regulations from 
participating, as an order, in demonstrations of a political or party 
character, yet all the teachings of our institution incite us to assist as 
Masons, in rendering just tribute and honor to the beneftxctors of our 
race and country. Prompted by these sentiments, we are here to-da}^, in 
response to the courteous invitation extended to the fraternity, by the 
Committee of Arrangements, to assist in the festivities of this interesting 
occasion — deeming it a liigli privilege to be enabled in any degree to add 
to the imposing ceremonial of inaugurating and dedicating this Slatue, 
erected to the memory of one of America's noblest citizens — a work of 
commemoration justly due to the virtues of the departed patriot and 
soldier, and equally creditable to the taste, spirit and liberality of a 
grateful people. 



55 

By your partiality, brethren, it becomes my pleasing duty to lead in 
the Masonic ceremonies proper on this occasion ; which, with the assis- 
tance of the officers of the Grand Lodge, I will now proceed to perform. 
But, before engaging in any important undertaking, it is our duty as 
masons to invoke the blessings of the Supreme Architect of the 
Universe. Brother Grand Chaplain, let us commence this ceremonial by 
devout prayer to Almighty God. 

After prayer by the Gliaplain, the Grand Master resumed, as 
follows : 

Grand Master : — Eight Yv^orshipful Deputy Grand Master, the Jewel 
of your office is the square. Apply it to those parts of the foundation 
or pedestal which supports this Statue. 

Deimiy Or and Master — The duty is performed. Most Worshipful, and 
the workmen have done their duty. 

Grand Master : — Eight Worshipful Senior Grand Warden, the level is 
the Jewel of your office. Will you apply it to this pedestal ? 

Senior Grand Warden : — I have applied the level. Most Worshipful. 
The workmen have done their duty. 

Grand Master : — Eight Worshipful Junior Grand Warden, the proper 
Jewel of your office is the plumb. Apply it to the several sides of the 
pedestal which supports this Statue. 

Junior Grand Wo.rden : — I have Most Worshipful, and find the same 
truly upright. The Craftsmen have done their duty. 

Grand Master : — The Craftsmen have indeed done their duty well, and 
I declare this work well formed, true and trusty. 

The Golden vessel containing Corn was then handed to the 
Deputy Grand Master, Avho delivered it to the Grand Master, 
who poured the contents upon the pedestal, saying : 

May tiie Supreme Architect of the Universe strengthen and sustain 
the people of this happy land, to finish the work begun by their fathers, 
as shall best redound to His honor and the welfare of our common 
Country. 

The Silver vessel containing Wine was then delivered to the 
Senior Grand Warden, who handed it to the Grand Master, 
who poured it upon the pedestal, saying : 

May the Giver of ail Good bestow his blessing upon this patriotic 
undertaking, and grant to this people virtue and wisdom, to enable them 
to preserve the glorious privileges they now enjoy. 

The Silver vessel containing Oil was then handed to the Junior 
Grand Warden, who presented it to the Grand Master, who 
sprinkled the contents upon the pedestal, saying : 



56 • 

May the Grand Ruler of the World preserve the Union of these United 
States — and may this Union be a bond of friendship and brotherly love, 
which shall endui*e through all time. 

The Grand Master then repeated tlie following invocation : 

May Corn, Wine and Oil, the expressive symbols of Nourishment, 
Refreshment and Joy, abound among men throughout the World; 
may this Statue long continue a memorial of affectionate regard by a 
grateful people to one of the bravest of our country's defenders ; and 
may the great and beneficent deeds of the honored dead live in future 
generations, and exert a benign influence after this marble monument 
shall have crumbled into dust. 

The Grand Master then struck the Pedestal thrice with the 
Gavel,* after which the Public Grand Honors by the fraternity 
were rendered, and the Masonic Ceremonies closed. 

At the close of these ceremonies, Ossian E. Dodge, the cele- 
brated vocalist, assisted by the Masonic choir sang the Ode. 
The effect was very fine, the choir doing full justice to the piece. 
The Ode w^as written by Mr. E. G. Kitoavlton, of this city, and 
the music composed by Ossian E. Dodge. 

SUNG BY SIR KXIGHT OSSIAN E. DODGE. 

On Erie's bosom broad and ftiir, 

A son of freedom, bold and brave. 
Unfurled his banner to the air, 

And boldly fought our rights to save. 
His deck with fearless heart he trod. 

While flashed his eye with freedom's light, 
With daring hand and trust in God, 
He bravely battled for the right. 
Chorus — Can we forget the good and brave, 

Whose image from yon marble towers, 
Or blot the record which he gave, 

"We've met the enemy and they are ours." 

The foe was conquered, freedom's cry 

Re-echoed o'er the water's blue. 
The victor's flag was raised on high, 

And waved o'er freemen brave and true. 
Oh, freedom's son, thy glowing name 

Shall ere be cherished by the free, 



* Made from the timber of the flag eliip Lawrence. 



57 

And in the foremost ranks of fame, 
The name of Peeiiy long shall be. 
Cnosus — Can we forget, &c. 

Let yonder pile in glory stand 

In after years the tale to tell. 
How Peert brave with fearless hand 

The battle fought and won so well. 
Each heart that burns with freedom's flame, 

Will ne'er forget this festal day, 
And ne'er will Pehry's honored name 

Remain unsung or pass away. 
Chorus — Can we forget, &c. 

This concluded tlie ceremonies of Inanguration, and tlie 
immense assemblage adjourned to tlie bank of the lake to 
witness the Mock Battle. 

THE MOCK BATTLE. 

There Avas some delay in getting out the vessels to commence 
the Mock Naval Battle. An immense crowd lined the bank of 
the Lake, and occupied every fence and house top, besides all 
the carriages that could be drawn near enough to afford a view. 
The entire crowd in the city seemed to have been concentrated 
at this point. 

Probably nothing so difficult of satisfactory execution could 
have been placed upon the programme, but under the direction 
of the committee, guided by the charts of Dr. Parsons and 
Capt. Ghamplix, as published in the Cleveland Herald, the 
real battle was faithfully represented in the mimic fray. The 
A^essels were toAved out by tugs, took the proper jDosition, and the 
firing commenced. Very soon the fleet was enveloped in smoke, 
Avhich the light ^yiiid Avas slow in clearing aAvay. The Lawrence, 
as w^hen disabled in the real battle, fell behind after a time, 
and the little boat pased over to the Niagara, representing the 
perilous A^oyage of the heroic Commodore. The boat passed under 
the larboard quarter of the Niagara, and Avas lost to vieAV in the 
smoke. Very soon, hoAvcA^er, the Niagara hauled up, and passed 
through the British fleet, delivering, as she did so, her fire upon 
them in rapidly succeeding broadsides, first upon the Detroit and 
Queen, and next into the Lady Provost. Then AAdien the Detroit 



58 

and Queen Charlotte, unable longer to sustain the figiit, struck 
their colors, the Scorpion overhauled the escaping Little Belt, and 
the Tripp chased and captured the Chippewa. This closed the 
contest. 

A remarkable coincidence occurred in a matter for TV'hich the 
committee could not well be held responsible. The wind in the 
actual contest, was light at the commencement, but freshened 
toward the close. In the mock battle the elements were singu- 
larly propitious — the wind at first being feeble, and freshening 
and gathering strength as the fight progressed. Nearly every 
detail was faithfully presented in a mimic show, and the tens of 
thousands who witnessed it were undoubtedly well satisfied. — 
j^othing of the kind was ever before attempted in the West, and 
those under whose direction it was accomplished are certainly 



deservino; of much credit. 

o 



MASOXIC BAXQUET. 

One of the most interesting as well as lively features of the 
grand celebration was the banquet at the Weddell House, 
which came ofi" just after the conclusion of the ceremonies of 
the inauguration in the afternoon. The large dining hall of the 
AVeddell, and several of the adjoining rooms were filled Avith 
tables spread with all the substantials, luxuries and delicacies 
of the season. Around these, in the full dress costumes of 
their several orders, were seated from three to five hundred 
members of the Masonic body, and when the tables were filled 
it is clifiicult to imagine a scene of greater interest. Every one 
was filled with the occasion, and, though eating and drinking 
were the particular recreations of the hour, yet so great had 
been the pageant, so varied the incidents, so magnificent the 
procession and so impressive the exercises, that for a while the 
fortification of the inner man, notwithstanding the well-filled 
board, seemed to give place to a lively and anim.ated conversa- 
tion. 

"" Among the guests of distinction who were present, was the 
Hon. B. F. French, Grand Master of the General Grand En- 
campment of the United States ; Kent Jarvis, Esq., Grand 
Commander of the Grand Commandery of Ohio ; Horace M. 
Stokes, Esq, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio ; Hon. 



59 

^Y. B. The ALL; Pci.^t Grand Master ; E. AV. Johx Deew, Grand 
Lecturer of Xew Yorli, and many otliers. 

Wlien the clotli was removed the attention of the company- 
was called to the reading of the toasts, prepared for the occasion, 
in a brief speech by H. L. Hosmee, Esq., Deputy Grand Master 
of Ohio, who presided on the occasion, assisted by Sa:mt:el E. 
Adams, Esq. These sentiments, prepared by a master hand, 
and echoing the feelings which had been inspired by the previous 
events of the occa.sion were drank with great enthusiasm, and, 
together with volunteer sentiments which followed, called from 
the distinguished gentlemen present responses replete with pat- 
riotism and humor, and the Hecker Band of musicians caught 
up the echo and wove it into the most thrilling strains of our 
national music. Among the gentlemen whose speeches were 
most telling in their eliects, we may mention those of Messrs. 
Jaevis, Stokes, Deew and Mooee. The latter gentleman 
presented an original letter written by Commodore Peeey to 
General Harrison, five days before the battle of Erie, which 
produced a profound sensation upon the audience. Our Dodge 
— the veritable OssiAX E. — was there with a company of singers, 
and enlivened the ceremonv with the undvins; sons; of Eos 

MOEEIS. 

The exercises at the Banquet were concluded with the following 
SOXG 

WRITTEN- BY WILLLA3I BOSS WALLACE, AXD St3G BY OSSIA^' E. DODGE. 



Tlie glorious soul of valor called, 
And here in gratitude we tkrong, 

Eesponsive to her thrilling cry, 
With laurel-leaf and triumph-song ! 

Our grateful hands his Statue rear, 
Who broke the pride of hostile powers, 

Then simply, but sublimely said: — 
'' TTe'^-e met the foe antd they are cms 1" 

II. 

Well may his countrymen exult ! 
Still FEEE the storied waters roll. 

On which he showed, when all seemed lost, 
How srand the tnie heroic soul 1 



60 

His slilp— a wreck ! — another's sought ! * 
Lo ! sink at once tlie hostile powers ! 

For Perry vowed the news should be: — 
" We've met the foe, and they are ours !" 

III. 

Roll, roll ye waves ! — eternal roll ! 
For ye are holy from his might! 

O, Banner, that his valor wreathed, 
Forever keep thy victor-light ! 

And if upon this sacred Lake 
Should ever come invading powers. 

Like him may we exulting cry: — 
" We've met the foe, and they are ours !" 

The day was fast waning into twiliglit Avlien tliis deliglitful 
re-union was broken, and it was only in obedience to tbe general 
impression which prevailed among the guests that to stay longer 
would be an imposition upon the excellent hosts, who needed 
the hall, that the brethren finally withdrew. A period of 
greater enjoyment than that aiforded by this occasion, it would 
have been difficult to crowd into the two hours which it occupied, 
and the good feeling, geniality and genuine friendship which it 
inspired, destined long to out-live the occasion, and to mark so 
much of the tenth day of September, 1860, as it occupied, as 
one of the brightest spots in the memory of each wdio partici- 
pated in it. 

THE EECEPTION BY THE GOVEENOES. 

The reception at the Angier, on the evening of the 10th, by 
Governors Speague and Dennison, was a brilliant aff"air. Soon 
after eight, the spacious drawing-rooms and halls were filled 
with beautiful women and gallant men, and at half past eight 
o'clock, the dining hall (which, from its spaciousness, was called 
into requisition) was thrown open. At the head of the room 
were the Governors, attended by their military families, and 
we also recognized among the distingushed gentlemen Bishop 
Claek, of R. I., Hon. J. R. Baetlett, Secretary of State, 
of Rhode Island, Col. Beown, of the Providence Infantry, &c. 

On each side of the room were paraded the Providence Light 



* Peury originated this darins aud brilliant feat in naval warfare. 



i 



61 

Infantry, in their elegant scarlet uniforms, and at the lower end 
was tlie American Brass Band, of Brovidence. The Brovidence 
Infantry, in everything that makes up soldiers, dress, manoeuvers, 
conduct, on and off parade, has no superior. Their uniforms 
are superb. The American Band can have no superiors, and we 
thought the gold medal — the gift of Brovidence ladies — dangling 
from the breast of the leader, Mr. J. C. Geeene, was most 
worthily bestowed. 

Blon. H. B. Bayne presented the ladies and gentlemen to the 
Governors, and after a two hours' reception, the evening wound 
up with a hop, after the entrancing strains of the American 
Band. 

THE END, 

The railroads at night took off enormous crowds, leaving an 
immense throng to stay over night. 

Cleveland has reason to be proud of the day and its proceed- 
ings. She has honored herself, the State and the whole West. 



THE MILITAKY EEVIEW. 

Camp Berry was crowded Tuesday the 11th, by thousands of 
people, to Avitness the Grand Military Keview. Every available 
inch of standing or sitting room Avas occupied by the people, a 
large proportion of Avhom were ladies. At eleven o'clock some 
of the military companies filed into the enclosure. Company D, 
of Buffalo, under command of Major Bidwell, taking the lead. 
They Avere followed by the Cleveland Grays, Capt. Baddock ; 
Cleveland Light Guards, Capt. Sanfoed ; Washington Infantry, 
Bittsburgh, Capt. Eowley ; Dayton Light Guards, Capt. Bease ; 
Cleveland Artillery Company A, Capt. Simmons ; Company B, 
Capt. Mack; Company D, Capt. Bice; Company E, Captain 
Heckman ; Brooklyn Light Artillery, Capt. Belton, and Geneva 
Ohio Company, formed the Artillery Companies on the ground. 
The Union Cornet Band, Buffalo, furnished the music. 

At twelve o'clock the Brovidence Light Infantry, headed by 



62 

tlie American Brass Band of Providence, entered the grounds, 
and were loudly cheered. They were followed by Governor 
Dexniso]^ and Staff", and Governor SPEAGrE and Staff, Avho rode 
around the line. The troops, commanded by Brig. Gen. J. W. 
Fitch, then marched past the Governors, after which several 
evolutions were gone through. The appearance of the companies 
was admirable, and the evolutions made with true military 
precision. 

At the close of the Parade and Eeview, Gapt. Sanfoed, of 
the Light Guards, and Capt. Paddock, of the Grays, were 
ordered to appear before Governors Speague and Dennisox. 
The two companies, haA'ing marched up, Gov. Speague taking 
off" his elegant sword, said : 

Capt. Sa]s;fokd : — As a momento of thi3 occasion, and of my high 
appreciatiou of the citizen soldiers of Cleveland, and of j^our bearing as 
a gentleman and a soldier, I present you this, my sword. Use it, sir, in 
the spirit that it is given. 

Capt. Saxfoed received the sword, and resj^onded in graceful 
terms. ^ 

Governor Dexxison then, in a very few words, presented his 
sword to Capt. Paddock, as a token of his appreciation of 
Cleveland military. 

On receiving the sword the Captain attempted an excuse for 
failure of fitting response. Gov. D. said: "A soldier sj^eaks by 
deeds, not words." 

The gifts were sjDlendid testimonials from the chief executives 
of the two States, and will be carefully cherished by the recip- 
ients. 

After a parade of about an hour, the companies were dis- 
missed, and marched down town. The weather, which up to 
this moment had been fine, suddenly changed, and the home- 
ward march was through a flood of rain. 



63 



THE FAEEWELL DIXXER. 



The Ceremonies of the Inauguration, ttie Governor's Eeception, 
tlie Military Eeyiew, and otlier necessary detail, so filled up tlie 
time of the visit of the Ehode Island guests as to preclude a 
formal Banquet. The Mayor, Common Council, and Monument 
Committee, however, arranged a social dinner at the Angier, 
which was on the table at five o'clock, P. M., the eleventh. 

At the head of one of the tables were Gov. Speague. Bishoj) 
^Claek, Hon. J. E. Baetlett, Secretary of State of Ehode 
Island, Col. Beowx of the Providence Infantry, and other promi- 
nent gentlemen of the Ehode Island party. At the head of 
another table were Gov. De]j;xisox, Mrs. Dexxiso^s and other 
ladies, with the Governor's Staff. At a third table were members 
of the Council, as follows : 0. M. Oviatt, C. J. Ballaed, I. H. 
Maeshall, I. U. Mastees, Jas. Cheistiax, Ed. Lewis, C. L. 
ErssELL, H. S. Steve2ss, J. H. Claek, Thos. Qeayle. Also 
were present, Haevey Eice, Chairman of the original Monument 
Committee, the Eev. Mr. Bittixg-ee, and others. The tables 
were otherwise filled with Governor Speagee's Staff, the Staff 
of the Providence Marine Artillery Corps, the Staff" of the 
Providence Infantry, &c., &c. 

Mayor Sextee presided, having at his right Mr. Kxight, 
Mayor of Providence, and Mr. Albeegee, Mayor of Buffalo. 
The Mayor presided with true dignity, and discharged the 
delicate duty (made doubly difficult by the informality of the 
affair.) in good taste and with credit to his office and the city. 

The Eev. Mr. Bittixgee ashed the blessing of God upon the 
festivities. 



64 

"When siibstantials had been disposed of the Mayor rapped 
the table to order, and gave, as a toast, 

Got. Sfrague and Staff and our Rliode Island gnests. 

"When apphiuse had ceased, Gov. Speague arose. He said he 
had a great deal to say but lacked words to express the acknowl- 
edo-enients for the kindnesses received in Cleveland, but Ehode 
Island will appreciate those kindnesses, and in behalf of that 
State, he tendered sincere thanks. To the City Council, to the 
Monument Committee, to the Artist, to the citizens of CleA'eland, 
the Avhole country owes a debt of gratitude for the erection of 
that beautiful monument which is reared, not merely for to-day, 
but for the future. It Avas such memorials that made brave 
men. 

The Governor said that Ehode Island had sent them here and 
thev had gathered inspiration every moment of their visit, and 
should return to their families and friends deeply grateful for 
the courtesies and attentions paid them. 

Gov. Speague then spoke of some historical events connected 
with Rhode Island, as follows : 

As the present seems to be the occasion of glorifying the State of 
Rhode Island and her heroes, I hope, Mr. Mayor, that in replying to 
your sentiment, I may be pardoned if I add a little to this glorification, 
bv presenting a few facts in relation to her naval and military history. 

Strikiug the first blow against British power in, America, in the 
destruction of the Gaspee, in 1772, Rhode Island may justly claim to 
have led the way in the revolutionary drama that followed. She was 
also among the first to protest against the oppressive acts of the King 
and Parliament some years earlier. I have now to call your attention to 
some striking facts (not generally known) relative to the Colonial History 
of the State, for which I am indebted to its early records which have 
been arranged and edited by my friend, the Hon. John R. Bartlett, Sec- 
retary of .the State of Rhode Island, whose deep research has given the 
State and country one of the best governmental works of our Colonial 
History extant. My friend is among the Rhode Island Delegation here 

to-day. 

In examining the early records of Rhode Island, it will be found that 
during her whole Colonial period, she was prominent for the extent of 
her shipping, at one time even surpassing thiit of the great city which is 
now the commercial center of the new world. 

As early as 1658, when Great Britain was at war with Holland, Rhode 
Island issued commissions to privateers to cruise against the Dutch, and 



65 

during the same century sent lier vessels to Europe, Africa and the West 
Indies for commercial purposes. From this period to the breaking out 
of the revolution, and particularly during the wars between Great 
Britain, France and Spain, the seas swarmed with her privateers. The 
advantages of the fine harbors of Narragansett Bay induced vessels from 
other places, not only to fit out, but to resort there with theh cargoes. 
The success which attended these expeditions awakened a spirit of ad- 
venture and daring among our o^m people, which burst out in full force 
in the destruction of the British vessel, the Gaspee, in 17T2, and in the 
creation of a navy in the war of the Revolution which followed. The 
great facilities with which letters of marque were obtained from the 
Government of Rhode Island during the wars alluded to, made it the 
resort of adventurers from all parts of the countiy as well as from Europe. 

Towards the close of the seventeenth century, so numerous were pri- 
vateers from our little colony, that Holland, France and Spain remon- 
strated with our mother country to put a stop to them. The notorious 
Captain Kidd even sought a shelter in our beautiful Bay, and narrowly 
escaped capture. Some of his men were arrested there ; and so numer- 
ous were the complaints against the colony for the facilities with which 
letters of marque were procured, and for the alleged protection to these 
early fillibusters, that a commission was sent out fi'om England to inquire 
into and put a stop to them. The most stringent laws were then passed 
by the Colony for the suppression of privateers. But these transactions 
were the means of making us a maratime people, and giving us a rank 
as such, which was maintained to the close of the last century. 

From 1745 to 1T60, during which period England kept a large fleet in 
the American waters, she recruited her seamen chiefly from Rhode 
Island. In our records are preserved the letters of the British Admi- 
rals at Halifax, New York and even in the West Indies, pressing our 
government to furnish seamen for the fleet. Many letters are also pre- 
served from William Pitt, asking also for seamen. These calls were 
promptly responded to, as our records show. 

In the memorable war between Great Britain and France, which end- 
ed with the taking of Quebec, and the fall of the French Empire in 
North America, Governor Hopkins wrote to William Pitt that the war 
had changed the course of trade into that of privateering, and that fifty 
privateers had been fitted out in the Colony. 

In the reduction of Cape Breton and Louisbourg she contributed her 
men and ships, and the British olficers acknowledged the part she took 
in the memorable reduction of Havana in the year 1762. It may seem 
singular that so small a Colony as Rhode Island should be able to con- 
tribute any material aid to so great a power as Great Britain in the war 
in which she was engaged ; but a simple statement from the records of 
the Custom House of Newport in 1763 will show of what we were capa- 
ble. The books there show that Rhode Island then had 184 vessels 
bound on foreign voyages, and 352 employed in the coasting trade, which, 
5 



66 

witli lier fishing vessels, were manned with 2,200 seamen, I mention 
these facts to show the growth of our marine, but I have now to men- 
tion one which has a more direct bearing upon the great event which we 
have met to commemorate. 

Fort Oswego, it will be remembered, was built by the French and fell 
into the hands of the English, to be retaken by the French in 1756. 
While the English possessed it, a number of ship carpenters and seamen 
were sent there Irom Rhode Island, probably for a similar object to that 
which Commodore Perry had in view, when fifty-four years after, he 
brought a party of shipwrights and seamen to Lake Erie, with such 
magnificent results. When the French re-took Oswego in 1756, they 
took our Rhode Islanders prisoners, and sent them to France, where they 
remained till the close of the war. Fourteen of those men, whose names 
we have, returned. 

In 1775, the first squadron sent out by the revolted Colonies was fitted 
out in, and sailed from Rhode Island, under command of Commodore 
Hopkins, in which Paul Jones was a Lieutenant. They took two forts in 
Xew Providence, in the Bahama Islands, with a large quantity of cannon, 
stores and ammunition, and captured two armed ships on their return. 
Rhode Island furnished two other Commodores, Whipple and Talbot, 
who also distinguished themselves in the War of the Revolution. 

I have thus presented this brief sketch of the naval history of Rhode 
Island, to show that the Hero of the Battle of Lake Erie had before him 
examples of bravery in his native state, to spur him on, and which in- 
fused into him that daring spirit which led him to accomplish the great 
victory which we have here assembled to commemorate. 

After saying so much, Mr. Mayor, of the naval exploits of Rhode 
Island, I should do injustice to its military which is here represented by 
one of its most gallant corps, the First company of Light Infantry, did I 
not say a few words in relation to the military history of the State, par- 
ticularly as the present seems to be the occasion to glorify it. 

In the year 1 638, but two years after Roger Williams landed on our 
shore, a military organization took place, a day of general training was 
fixed, and all persons between sixteen and sixty were required to bear 
arms. Soon after this, inspectors visited every house to see that their 
fire-arms were in good order; a neglect of which subjected the owners to 
a fine. 

Every man was also required to have in his possession a certain quan- 
tity of gunpowder and bullets, and he Avas further required to carry his 
musket or fowling-piece to church on Sundays. 

So began our military organization, to protect the infimt colony from 
its enemies the Indians, and the terrible Dutch of New Amsterdam, who 
threatened to expel the English colonists, and whose valor and exploits in 
arms are so truthfully set forth in that celebrated work known as Knick- 
erbocker's History of New York. Trained bands, as they were then 
called, were organized in every town, and as we increased in population, 
companies similar to those of our day were also formed. 



67 

In the wars of the seyenteenth and eighteenth centuries which Eng- 
land was involved in, the xVmerican Colonies were required to lend their 
aid, and we find Rhode Island sending her troops to Cuba against the 
Spaniards, and to IS'ova Scotia, Cape Breton and Canada, against the 
French. In all the campaigns against those provinces, she furnished 
soldiers, but in the great canipains in the war which terminated with the 
subjection of Canada, in 1760, her military were most prominent. — 
At Oswego, Crown Point, Fort William Henry, and Ticonderoga, she 
was well represented, as well as in the force sent against Montreal and 
Quebec. In the latter campaigns, Rhode Island furnished 2,000 men, a 
pretty large number when it will be recollected that the population of 
the Colony was then less than that of the city of Cleveland at this time. 
Besides this, I find by the returns, that in the year 1760 there were fifty- 
two separate military companies in the Colony. Four years later the 
Colony was called upon to send four companies of soldiers for the de- 
fence of Niagara. 

The part we took in the war of the revolution is well known. It has 
been written by the eminent historian who yesterday favored us with an 
address. Our Greene was second only to Washington in the services he 
rendered his country in that war. The splendid victory of Peeey was 
enough for us in the war of 1812. 

Gov. Sprague, in conclusion, referred in very fine terms to 
Gov. Dexnison, warmly thanking him for his reception and his 
attentions, and gave as a sentiment : 

"Health, prosperity and happiness to my friend, his Excellency, Gov. 
Dex^'iso^'." 

Gov. Dennisox arose, and said he was deeply grateful to his friend, 
the Governor of Rhode Island, for his kind allusions, and was not 
conscious he deserved them. When he was invited to attend this cele- 
bration he did not feel that he had any possible reason why he should 
not attend. Occupying the position he did, he felt it his duty to be pres- 
ent, and he knew he should act as the representative of the people ot 
Ohio, in assisting to give honor to the man who g-ave peace to her 
Northern frontier. He knew, too, that the history of Rhode Island 
challenged the admiration of the whole nation. There had been a day 
when she would not rally to the support of the Union, and were he to 
fail to be present on any occasion that would allow him to express his 
regard for Rhode Island, the people of Ohio would not be satisfied. He 
knew, too, that Rhode Island and Ohio were members of the same glori- 
ous Union, [applause] and he saluted Rhode Island in the name of those 
whose blood was shed to give to us freedom and peace. He loved Ohio, 
her lake on the north, and her river on the south, her literary and reli- 
gious institutions, and her people, but he also loved her as one of the 



68 

Union of States, and he sliould love her less if she was separated from 
the Union. He said to Rhode Ishmd that we were members of the same 
great family, the children of the same fothers, who fought for all of us. 
He had passed a delightful time during the festivities, and he was glad to 
know that the delegation from Rhode Island had enjoyed a pleasant 
time, and he felt that Ohio had a debt to pay to the State represented by 
his friend. Gov. Sprague. 

Got. Dexnison referred in very handsome terms to tlie 
munificence of the city of Clevehmd and lier citizens in erecting 
the Perry Statue, and complimented the Mayor, the Council, the 
Monument Committee, the Artist and the Contractors upon the 
work. In conclusion, Gov. Denxison spoke of a gentlemen born 
of Quaker parents and raised in a Quaker family, under teach- 
ings of peace, and yet, when he found that the honor of the 
country was in danger, hesitated not to rush to the rescue. He 
became a part of the naval force of the United States, and on 
the 10th of September, 1813, he was one of the bravest men 
who then defended the cause of our country. He became a 
captain, but after peace he listened to the solicitations of his 
Quaker friends and resigned. Years afterwards his love of the 
service, and a believed duty to his country, overcame all 
objections and he applied to be reinstated, and was told by the 
President that his resignation had never been accepted, and 
that he was entitled to a higher post made vacant by the death 
of Com. Hull, and that his pay had accumulated until 822,700 
in the Treasury of the United States belonged to him. " But," 
said that man, " Mr. President, I have performed no service to 
entitle me to this money or rank and I cannot take it. I sent 
in my resignation for the purpose of withdrawing from the 
service of my country. I ask you to permit me to go back where 
I was, but you must let me spend all my days an honest man, 
who has never taken a dollar which did not belong to me."' 
Happy am I, as Governor of Ohio, on my native soil to salute 
that brave honest man. 

Mr. Mayor, I give you tlie health of as honest a man as ever walked 
on God's earth — Captain Thomas Brownell, now before me. . 

The effect of these remarks, and their climax in the mention 
of Capt. Brownell's name, was enthusiastically thrilling, for 



69 

until the name was mentioned, most at tlie table were not aware 
wlio the Governor referred to, and the cheering was uproarious 
beyond description. Meantime Capt. Beowxell's weather-worn 
face was a study for an artist, for it expressed what words could 
not speak. Pdsing from his seat the old sailor attempted to 
speak, but failing, rushed forwards towards the Grovernor, and 
again stopping near him. could only articulate. '' I thank you, 
Sir," and sat down, We have no doubt Capt. Browxell found 
his duty on the A'riel, on the 10th of Sept., 1813, easier to 
perform than what he felt to be his duty at that table, but all 
the speeches in the world could not have spoken so eloquently as 
that " I thank you, Sir," 

Mr. J. H. Claek, of the Council, then gave as a toast — 

The City of Pkovidexce. 

Mayor Kxight of Providence, responded briefly and haj)pily 
regarding the Statue of Pere,y and the pleasure which had been 
given to the excursionists in joining in the celebration in honor 
of Commodore Perry. Before leaving home he had procured 
two very fine photographic views of the birth-place of Com. 
Perry, about thirty-five miles south of Providence, and fifteen 
west of i^ewport. which he now presented to the city of Cleve- 
land ; also a photographic likeness of Com. Perry, from a 
portrait in possession of the family. He stated that members of 
the Perry family regarded the Statue as a good likeness of the 
original. They were delighted with their visit to Cleveland. 
He closed with the sentiment — 

The City of Cleveland — May lier present prosperity be continued 
to the latest 2:eneration. 

Mayor Sexter, in the name of the Common Council and the 
City of Cleveland, handsomely thanked the Ehode Island dele- 
gation for their visit, and for the pictures which had just been 
presented. They should be preserved in the Council Hall. 

Mayor Kxight stated that he had had assurance that Gov. 
Dexxisox. in a tour, which he proposed to make shortly, would 
visit Providence. (This announcement was received with vo- 
ciferous applause from the Ehode Islanders.) He assured everv 
pitizen of Ohio and of Cleveland, that Ehode Island was a 



70 

hospitable State, and tliat the people had large hearts, althougli 
their State was a small one. 

Governor Dennison thanked them for this expression, and 
assured them that if possible he would make good the promise. 

He then called upon Surgeon Gen. McMillAjS", who made a 
few happy remarks, complimenting especially the ladies of Ohio, 
and said that the only cause for regret, on this occasion, was 
that the members from Rhode Island did not bring their wives, 
their sisters^ and sweethearts. Surgeon Gen. McMillan con- 
cluded with the following sentiment : 

The Womex of Rhode Island. — Wliilst we meet to celebrate the 
liero of the past, they remain at home — heroes of the present. 

On this toast, Gov. Speague called out Gen. Dyer, of Rhode 
Island, who made a very happy speech, concluding it with 
verses improvised on the occasion of his visit, but which he 
declined to furnish the reporter, as they were written at the 
request of a lady present. 

Col. Brown, of the Infantry, being toasted, ordered Adjutant 
Prentiss to respond, which the Adjutant did, concluding with 
a very beautiful poem, which we should give, had that gentle- 
man allowed a co-pj to be taken. 

On a call for Bishop Clark, that distinguished divine was 
introduced by Gov. Sprague. The Bishop made a short, but 
exceedingly happy sjDeech ; he had come to bear witness as to 
the conduct of his Rhode Island friends, and in his opinion 
they had done themselves great credit, and he would so certify 
to his people of Rhode Island, [laughter.] The Rhode Island 
Bishop, in speaking of the pageant of the last two days, had no 
fitter words than those used by an Irishman, who, in expressing 
his delight on an occasion, said "the thing could not have been 
better, without being worse." In this celebration the climax 
had been reached, and there it stopped. The Bishop said the 
Rhode Islanders would go home better for their excursion, and 
with an affection for Ohio ; and, indeed, from what he had seen, 
he believed some of the unmarried men will be back very soon, 
and he only hoped he too may be here to settle the mattei\ The 
applause was loud and long, on the Bishop's resuming his seat. 

The Chaplain of the Infantry, Rev. Mr. Woodbury, was 
called out, and said he could certify as to the conduct of the 



71 

Liglit Infantry staff, as tiie Bistop had relative to tlie Gover- 
nor's staff. He also testified to tlie courtesies and attentions re- 
ceived, and tlie obligations tlie EKode Islanders were under to 
citizens of Ohio. 

Gol. ToiiPKixs, of tlie Providence Marine Artillerv Corps, 
being toasted, was introduced by Gov. vSpragne. The Colonel 
said he felt proud of his command, and as being the successor in 
it of Gov. Sprague. He was not an orator, but at home he had 
sLv speakers, and if they were here they should speak for him, 
and whenever Gov. Dexxisox should visit Providence, the 
whole six should speak such words of welcome to Ohio as could 
not be mistaken. 

Mayor Kx'IGHT toasted the Governor's staff, and this called 
out Adj. Gen. Caeeixgtox, who said the hour has come for us 
to bid farewell to our Pihode Island friends, and I will delay 
them only to offer a sentiment. Otu' people, active and ener- 
getic in civil life, by their energy and intelligence, are fitted the 
more thoroughly to maintain her honor, and everywhere they 
are industrious, virtuous and patriotic ; the citizens alone, with- 
out the standing army, are ade-rpiate to the common defence. I 



The Citizkx Soldieky of Rhode Islakd — Energetic, prosperous 
and patriotic in their pursuits of peace; capable, successful and honored 

in the issues of war. 

The City of Buffalo being toasted. Mayor Albeegee, of that 
city, gave a toast : 

The Brotheuhood of the Txiox — One, inseparable, eternal. 

Xear the close of the dinner, vdiich was hastened, in order to 
enable the guests to reach the cars, Capt. Beowxell arose and 
said that he had been more than repaid for that he had done by 
this celebration, and this testimonial to himself. He tendered 
to all — Governor, staff and citizens — ^his thanks. It having 
been suggested that the Governor would like to have some mo- 
mento of the old sailor, he had taken steps to procure such, and 
he presented Gov. Dexxisox and Gov. Spkagee with fine pho- 
tographic likenesses of himself. 

Gov. Dexxisox said that he would receive the -portrait, and 



would hang it "up in the nursery of liis children, and point to 
it as the portrait of an honest man. 

The dinner then broke up in great spirits, and the military 
prepared to leave. 

SWOED PRESENTATION TO COL. BEOWN. 

It having been intimated that the Governors would like 
personally to see the Providence Light Infantry, Col. Beown, 
after the knapsacks were slung and the corps on the way from 
the Weddell to the cars, marched his command into the upper 
hall of the Angier. 

Gov. Speague then addressed Col. Beown, thanking him for 
the credit he and his command had done him as Governor of their 
own State, and referring in complimentary terms to Col. Beown 
as a citizen and soldier, and then introduced Col. Beown to Gov. 
Dennison. 

GoY. Dennison was happy to be introduced to the Command- 
er of the Providence Infantry, and as the Executive of Ohio to 
greet the corps that did the funeral honors to Com. Peeey. 
Gov. Dennison then presented a beautiful sword to Col. Beown 
in testimony of the esteem entertained for the Colonel as a man 
and a soldier, and a brave defender of the State of Ehode Island. 
The Governor said that when order was threatened and rebellion 
was imminent in Rhode Island, Col. Beown came to the defence 
of the constitution and the laws. 

Col. Beown received the sword, and said that even if language 
could express his feelings in response to the kind reference to 
him, he could not command that language. He received the 
sword, and would keep it in remembrance of this occasion. It 
was true he was one of that company when it buried Com. 
Peeey, and believed he was sole representative here of that com- 
pany as it then existed. Col. Beown referred to the rebellion in 
R. I., and his discharge of mere duty at that time ; he was 
summoned to his post at that time, but any credit was due to 
the brave men who were with him ; without them he could have 
done nothing, and to them the meed of praise should be awarded. 

The corps then gave their peculiar cheer, by count, repeating 
them three times, and then filed Qut of the Angier. The 



73 

Governor and Staff took tlieir positions, and tlie ^hole headed 
by the inimitable American Band playing " the girl I left behind 
me," took up their march for the Depot, amid cheers upon cheers 
by the citizens. 

Thus ended the greatest pageant ever witnessed in Ohio. 



THE CEOAVD OX THE TEXTH. 

One hundred and ten thousand men will stand on ten acres, 
allowing 11,000 to an acre, and every man four square feet. 
That was jSTapoleox's I's rule, and by that rule, taking the size 
of the ground as occupied on the Sc[uare when Mr. Baxceoft 
spoke, and calling that space two-fifths filled, there was 50,000 
people around the Statue when Mr. Baxceoft was speaking. 
This mass seemed hardly to relieve the pressure in the streets 
and the thousands in the windows, on balconies, and housetops 
are not taken into the account. The entire estimate of one 
hundred thotisand, therefore, is within bounds. 



THE BAGEAXT OF THE TEXTH. 

W^e congratulate Mr. ^Alcutt, the Messrs. Joxes. the origi- 
nal and subsequent Monument Committees, the City Government, 
and our citizens generally upon the success of the inauguration 
of the Perry Statue. If in so long a programme, to be executed 
amid a multitude that no man can number, it can be said there 
was no failure, more should not be asked. There was none, 
from the moving of the grandest procession ever seen in the 
West, to the firing of the last gun in the Mock Battle, everything 
passed off admirably, and with as little halting as in the nature 
of the case were possible. 

Gov. Speague, Bishop Claek, Mr. Baxceoft, Mr. Baetlett 
and others of the distinguished guests, passed high encomiums 
upon the merits of the Statue as a work of art, and Mr. 0. H. 



Perry, tlie son of tlie gallant Commodore, as the Statue was 
unveiled, and lie could take in the whole, said he ivas satisfied. 
There is no doubt but that Walcutt has given to the Statue, — 
in addition to its merits as a work of art, — the inestimable value 
of a correct likeness, and we again congratulate him that he has 
written his name so high among American Sculptors. 

But we also congratulate our City that it is the pioneer of the 
West in rearing a Statue to the chiefest of its defenders. Money 
cannot enter into the estimate of the value to our city of the 
pageant of the 10th ; and when we regard the monument as an 
expression of the taste and liberality of Cleveland ; as a beauti- 
ful token of our appreciation of the deeds of the gallant 
defenders of our country, the dollars and cents that enter into 
the computation are not coined. 



AN OLD SOLDIEE. 

Mr. E. BiDAVELL, of Kinsman, Trumbull County, Avill be 
among the Old: Soldiers at the Perry Statue Inauguration. Mr. 
BiDWELL, after Hull's surrender, and when the report reached 
the interior that the British had landed at Cleveland, instantly 
left a young wife and child in a log house in the woods, and 
taking his musket made for the Lake Shore. The report of the 
landing was untrue, and after a few weeks service, Mr. Bidw^ell 
was allowed to go home Avith instructions to hold himself in 
readiness to march at a moment's notice. 



THE OLD FIFEE. 

Among the old-time celebrities in town, is Jeff. Wall, a 
colored fifer in the American forces of the war of 1812. Wall 
was at Mackinac when the Battle of Lake Erie took place, but 
did service at several points during the war. He wears his old 
uniform with all the pride of a soldier. In this connection it is 
well to mention that there were many colored soldiers in the 
Army of the North West in the Avar of 1812. 



75 

THE SWORD OF YARNELL. 

Mr. Fleming, of Virginia, has witli liim in tliis city the sword 
worn by Lieut. Yaknell, on board the Lawrence in the Battle 
of Lake Erie. The sword was afterwards engraved by the State, 
as follows: — "In testimony of the bravery of Lieut. Yaenell, 
.who fought with Com. Perey on the Ship Lawrence^' and is 
now preserved among Virginia State mementoes of her heroes. 



CARRYING THE NEWS OF THE VICTORY. 

Cyeus Boswoeth, of Warren, a brother-in-law of Leonaed 
Case, is in this city. Mr. Bosw^oeth was a mail carrier between 
Warren, Trumbull County, and Pittsburgh during the war of 
1812. It is a remarkable fact that the three carriers who took 
the joyful news of Peeey's Victory from Detroit to Pittsburgh, 
are now living. They are as follows : — Samuel Doclue, route 
from Detroit to Cleveland, now living at Newton Falls ; Samuel 
BuENETT, Jr., route from Cleveland to Warren, now living at 
Newton Falls ; Cyeus Boswoeth, route from AYarren to Pitts- 
burgh, now living at Warren. 

When Mr. Boswoeth arrived at Pittsburgh with the tidings, 
the town was instantly illuminated and the rejoicing was uni- 
versal. A larger illumination than was intended was caused by 
the burning of a rope walk, which caught from some portion of 
the illumination. 



THE MAN WHO MADE THE CORDAGE. 

Near the close of the ceremonies of Inauguration on the 10th, 
an intelligent looking old man appeared on the stand and 
reported himself as the identical man who constructed the cord- 
age used in rigging Commodore Peeey's Fleet. He had with 
him the box of tools and hatchet used for that purpose. 

His name is Quinn, and he now lives in Pittsburgh. He 
w^as introduced to Gov. Dennisox, and by him to Gov. Speague 
and the relatives of Com. Peeey. 



76 . , 

OLIVER CULVER. 

The old pioneer, Oliver Culver, and his friend, A. Reynolds, 
of Rochester, N. Y., arrived on Saturday, to attend the inaugu- 
ration ceremonies. Culver assisted in the original survey of 
Cleveland, and cleared the ground of timber for the first garden 
spot in town, nearly opposite the AVeddell. 



MASONIC. 

Of the Representatives of the Masonic Grand Bodies, the 
following are reported in our city : 

Officers Grand Lodge of Ohio. — HoRxIce M. Stokes, G-rand 
Master ; Wm. B. Thrall, Past Grand Master ; Hezekiah L. 
HosMER, Deputy Grand Master ; George Webster, Senior 
Grand Warden ; Lucius C. Jones, Junior Grand Warden ; 
Heman Ely, Grand Marshal ; C. Moore, Past Grand Orator ; 
John D. Caldwell, Grand Secretary. 

Masonic Officers frovi other States. — W. H. Drew, Grand Lec- 
turer of Grand Lodge of New York ; G. T. Wilbur, Grand 
Captain General, Grand Commandery, New York; F. A. Al- 
BERGER, Commander ; Hugh DePayens, Encampment, Buffalo ; 
C. B. Manchester, Past G, H. Priest Grand Chapter, Rhode 
Island. 

Grand Encampment United States. — Sir Benjamin B. French, 
Grand Master. 

Officers Grand Encampment {Knights Templars) of Ohio. — Sir 
Kent Jarvis, Grand Master ; Thomas Sparrow, Deputy Grand 
Master ; Richard Creighton, Generalisimo ; George AVebster, 
Captain General ; Geo. H. Burt, Grand Senior Warden ; 
Samuel P. Axtell, Grand AVarden; John D. Caldwell, Grand 
Recorder. 

Grand Chapter R. A. Masons. — George Rex, G. H. Priest ; 
Peter Thatcher, Jr., Deputy G. H. P. ; John D. Caldwell, 
Grand Secretary. 



77 

Monroe Commandery No. 12, of Rocliester, N. Y., sent a large 
delegation. The Commandery numbers over 200 members. The 
following officers and members were present : 

E. Sir Wm. H. Buetiss, Commander; Sir Hoeace Fuller, 
G. ; Sir Dan'l Warner, C. G. ; Sir A. Reynolds, P. ;- Sir 
R. K. Lothridge, S. AV. ; Sir A. Hodgeman, W. ; E. Sir W. 
F. Holmes, P. E. C; Sir Wm. W. Bruff, Rec. ; Sirs Michael 
Filon, L. C. Spencer, N. P. Stone, J. C. Holyland, J. Lutes, 
D. Gibbons, M. C. Morduff, I. C. Steele, C. G. Beers, John 
Haywood, Jr., J. J. Alclriclge, A. J. Warner, Wm. Brown, 
Jas. Brown, 0. F. Brown, John Boyce, A. M. Ostrander, John 
Cook, G. B. Redfield, S. J. Crooks, Sam. N. Outhout, S. Sanborn, 
J. Stephenson, S. S. Pellett, J. Q. A. Hempsted, E. H. Green- 
ough, S. Peck, A. H. Greeno, M. Woodruff, J. M. Demerest, and 
others. 

Geneva Commcmdery . — J. S. Platner, I. Shimer, S. Shell. 
They w^ere accompanied by Capt. Scott's Caneseraga Band, of 
Dansville, one of the best bands of Western jSTew York. 

The Sir Knights of Rochester, with those from Buffalo, were 
under the command of Sir Charles A. W. Sherman, of Lake 
Erie Commandery, of Buffalo, as Marshal, assisted by R. E. W. 
F. Holmes, and Dan. Warner, of Rochester. • 

Central City Commandery, of Syracuse, and Genessee Com- 
mandery, of Lockport, were also represented. 



THE PROVIDENCE LIGHT INFANTRY. 
The following are the officers of the Providence Light In- 



fantry 



Colonel, Wm. W. Brown; 

Lieut. Colonel, S. R. Kkight; 

Major, Jas. K. Dorrance ; 

Lieutenant, Luther C. Warner; 

Quartermaster, F. J. Sheldon; 

Assistant Quartermaster, Wm. H. Greene: 

Paymaster, Samuel G. Trippe ; 



78 

Assistant Paymaster, Geo. B. Jasteam ; 

Commissary, Edwaed Davis ; 

Surgeon, C. G. McKnight ; 

Assistant Surgeons, A. B. Fostee, Geo. P. Bakee : 

Chaplaiii, Eev. A. Woodbury. 
The Infantry were provided Avitli tAvo uniforms and ample 
equipments, and are in an excellent state of drill and discipline. 
They were accompanied by the American Brass Band, compris- 
ing twenty-three pieces. 



GOV. SPEAGUES PARTY. 

The Bhode Island party which came with Gov. Speague. on 
Saturday, was as follows : Col. AVm. Haeeis, Col. J. A. Gaed- 
nee, Col. Lyman, Col. L. P. Feieze, Adj. Gen. Manean, Quar- 
ter-Master Gen. T. J. Stead; Assistant do., F. D. Stead; Sur- 
geon General, F. L. Wheatox, and Assistants, H. AV. Pivees, 
and G. W. Caee ; Commissioner General, Wm. Gilpin; Maj. 
Gen. John Gould. On the Governor's personal staff are Majors 
F. A. Peatt, Jno. L. Claek, Thos. S. Anthony. Brig. Gen. 
Cyeus G. Dyee, of the 3d Brigade, is attached to the Governor's 
suite, with the following : Jno. P. Baetlett, Secretary of State ; 
Rt. Pev. Thos. M. Claek, Bishop of Phode Island ; Hon. Jabez 
C. Knight, Mayor of Providence ; Lieut. Thos, Beownell, 
who was acting sailing master of the Ariel in the Battle of Lake 
Erie. 



THE PPOYIDENCE MAPIXE COPPS OF APTILLEPY, 

Which is represented here by its line and staff officers, 'as 
guests of the Infantry, has acquired an extended- reputation for 
its proficiency in drill as flying artillery, and includes among its 
members many prominent and influential citizens of the State. 
The present Governor was Colonel of the corps at the time of 
his election to the Gubernatorial office. 

The Officers here are as follows : Col. Chas. H. Thompkins, 
Adjt. Chas. H. Pope, Quarter Master Gen. Geo. H. Smith, Pay- 



79 

master Josepli H. Pope, Surgeon N^tlianiel M. Miller, Assistant 
Surgeon W. 0. Bartlett and Paymaster Gen. G-eo. P. Drown. 

This Company was organized in 1801; tliere are only two 
corps in Pliode Island older. It has 6 pieces, and turns out 110 
men and 80 horses. 

At the grand review the Officers of the Marine Corps appear- 
ed mounted, and were attached to Governor Sprague's staff. 



THE AMEEICAX BRASS BAND, 

Which accompanies the Providence Light Infantry, is a fitting 
escort for so noble a corps. It is one of the oldest musical asso- 
ciations of this character in the country, is attached to the 2d 
Brigade of Phode Island Militia, and is led by the celebrated 
" Joe Greene," whose fame is familiar in all the Eastern cities. 
Indeed, so highly are the services of this veteran musician ap- 
preciated in the city of his residence, that a few days since the 
ladies of Providence publicly presented to him a superb gold 
medal, appropriately inscribed, and forming at once a beautiful 
specimen of Providence artistic skill and a well-deserved testi- 
monial of esteem. This medal, we understand, was worn for 
the first time on the 10th, as was also a new and showy uniform 
of the Band. Of course it would be invidious to draw compari- 
sons, but we may with propriety say that the music of the Amer- 
ican Brass Band, upon their arrival on Saturday, has not been 
excelled by any field or martial music we have ever heard. 
The Providence Band divided attention at the great pageant of 
the 10th with the Providence Military. 



ACKNOWLEDGMEXTS FROM THE RELATIVES OF COM. 

PERRY. 

We are permitted to give the following letters, which speak 
for themselves : 

LETTER FROM O. H. PERRY. 

AitfERiCAx House, Cleveland, September 11, 1860. 
Harvey Rice, Esq., Chairman Perry Monument Committee : 

Dear Sir : — I cannot leave your hospitable city without thanking 
you most sincerely and with deep feeling for your warm and generous 



80 

reception. My risit to Cleveland will ever be remembered witli grati- 
tude to its citizens, and amid the grateful recollections of the day, will 
be those of your kind attentions. Please present my thanks to the 
members of your Committee. 

With Eespect, 

Very Truly Yours, 

O. H. PERRY. 

LETTEH FROM REV. DR. YINTOX. 

American House, Cleveland, September 10, 1860. 
Harvey Rice, Esq. : 

My Dear Sir: — I beg to express the acknowledgments of Mrs. Vinton 
and myself for the courteous and munificent hospitality which we have 
enjoyed. To the Governor of Ohio, and to the Mayor and citizens of 
Cleveland, to the proprietors of the American House, and specially, 
dear sir, to you, we owe our profound thanks. 

The commemoration of the Battle of Lake Erie, the noble statue of 
Com. Perry, and the perfect success of the arrangements, comported 
with the occasion which gave them birth ; and, the fomily of Com. Perry 
desu'e to tender you their cordial gratitude. 

With respect I remain, your ob't seiVt, 

FRANCIS YINTOK 

LETTER FROM DR. HONE. 

Cleveland, September 10, 1860. 
Harvey Rice, Esq., Chairman Perry Monument Committee: 

My Dear Sir : — I cannot take my departure from this beautiful city 
without expressing to you, and through you to your Committee, my 
thanks for the kind hospitality which we have received at your hands. 
This day has been to Mrs. H. and myself one of unalloyed gratifica- 
tion, which we will ever recur to with pleasure. 
Accept for yourself, dear sir, the kind regards of 

Yours Very Trul}^, 

JOHN HONE. 

letter from MR. J. D. W. PERRY. 

Cleveland, September 11, 1860. 
Harvey Rice, Esq., Chairman Perry Monument Committee : 

Dear Sir : — Before leaving your beautiful city, permit me to express 
to you my thanks for the hospitable attention extended to me during my 
visit to Cleveland. 

This very agreeable visit will be a source of pleasant remembrance to 
me. I am very respectfully yours, 

JAMES D. W. PERRY. 



FITTIISTG OUT OF PERRY'S FLEET. 



Early in tlie season of 1813, Com. Perey arrived at Erie, with. 
five small vessels from Black Kock ; the Lawrence and Niagara 
were on tke stocks at Erie. While the vessels were building at 
Erie, the British, squadron was outside, hovering round the en- 
trance to the harbor. In this connection we will give a narra- 
tive of a visit to Erie by Mr. William Coleman, a well known 
citizen of Euclid. At our request, Mr. Colemax has given us a 
letter as to his personal knowledge of th.e events of that summer. 
and we will here insert that portion relative to said visit : 

ira. cole^jjln's letter, 

Euclid, August 25, 1860. 

Eds. Heeald: — Your note of the 23d inst., in wliich you request me 
to relate any incident that I may remember pertaining to the battle of 
Lake Erie is now before me. 

It is true I was living in Euclid at that time, having come here in 1804, 
but my situation was such at the time, being Post Master, that I took no 
active part in the war, and of course saw but little of the scenes relating 
to that glorious day, except what took place in my immediate vicinity, 
consequently I am unable to give you as many or as interestiug mci- 
dents as perhaps many others could. 

I was at Erie in August, 1813, and went up to the Cascade, where Per- 
ry's vessels were getting ready to cross the bar, but was not on board of 
any of them. I went into the smiths' shop where the men were repairing 
and getting ready the boarding pikes, &c., and saw large piles of scrap 
iron. What seemed to me very singular was that the workmen, when 
they wanted a small piece of iron would cut it off from a bar, and wouM 
probably take twice as much as they needed, and throw the balance on the 
already large pile of scraps. I thought they were very wasteful of Uncle 
Sam's property and took the liberty of asking one of the workmen why they 
wasted the iron in that manner. His reply was short and to the point 
— at least it was satisfactory to me at the time : '' Our orders from head- 
quarters are to make all the scraps we can. They will all be sewed up 
in leather bags of proper size and used to cut the rigging of the British 
vessels when we come into close quarters.. We intend to make the 
6 



82 

far fly from tlie back of Johnny Bull when we meet him, and perhaps 
knock one of his horns off." And the sequel shows that they did it. 
One of the prisoners taken from the British in that battle, Joseph Pimlor, 
resided in Euchd for a long time, and has often said the Americans 
were worse than savages, or they would never have shot scraps of iron 
into their enemy's rigging, "for," said he, "a small scrap of iron will 
cut a man in two, and cut the rigging like knives." 

On the 4th of August, Com. Perry got his squadron out over the bar 
at the entrance of the Erie harbor, and into the open Lake in the face of 
the British squadron. He made a cruise without engaging the enemy 
and returned to harbor on the 8th. Here he was reinforced by the arri- 
val of men, and again set sail, arriving at Sandusky Bay on the 15th, 
where Harrisons and his forces were. Com. Perry here had an inter- 
view with Harrison, and received an addition to his force of Marines 
and then left for the enemy at Maiden. After reconnoitering the enemy 
near Maiden, he retired to Put-in-Bay, which lies on the north side of 
South Bass Island. 



THE BATTLE AS TOLD BY ONE OF THE ENEMY. 

AVe will now give the version of the Battle of Lake Erie, as 
told by a then enemy, who fired the first gnn at the Lawrence, 
and who also fired at Com. Perky, while in his small boat. It 
is the story of Mr. John Chapman, of Hudson, whose version 
of the attack on Fort Stephenson appears in another place. Mr. 
Chapman, says he returned from that expedition to Fort Maiden. 
His story continues as follows : 

Upon our return to the Fort I was sent on board the Queen Charlotte 
as a marine. My post was as gunner, maintopman, and boarder. My 
place as gunner was at No. 1, 24-pounder. We weighed anchor at 10 
o'clock, P. M. of the 9tli of September. Our destination was to Long 
Point for provisions for the upper forts, but thought it likely we should 
fall in with Commodore Perry's fleet. At daybreak of the 10th, the 
man at. the mast-head descried them at anchor in Put-in-Bay, when we 
bore down upon them. Tliey, discovering our approach, weighed an- 
chor and came out to meet us and give battle. 

Between 10 and 11 o'clock, I fired the first gun at the Lawrence. The 
first two shots I fired struck her — one through the mainmast and the 
other between wind and water. I remained at my gun through the ac- 
tion, except when I was obliged to bring cartridges for the gun, after the 
men were killed whose duty it was to serve them. I had my clothes, 
whiskers and hair badly singed by the accidental discharge of some 



83 

loose powder, but suffered no further injury, uotwitlistanding 
24-pouiid cartridge in my hand at the time. 

The Laicreac^ being disabled, Commodore Perry took advantage of 
the settling of the smoke upon the British fleet to go from her to the 
Niagara. We did not see him till he had nearly effected his purpose ; 
but the wind causing the smoke to lift, I saw the boat, aimed a shot at 
her, and saw the shot strike the boat. I then saw Commodore Perry 
strip off his coat and plug the hole with it. Having gained the ship, he 
sent Captain Elliott to bring the schooners into action. Captain Finnis, 
of the Queen Charlotte, had intended to pour in one broadside, and then 
board ; but his design was frustrated by the failing of the wind, which 
was blowing finely just before. The cutting away of the down haul of 
one of the sails, left her at the mercy of the wind, which again rose sud- 
denly, and she ran foul of the Detroit and became entangled with her. 
The American schooners coming into action in the mean time, raked 
them fore and aft, carrying away all the masts of the Detroit^ and the 
mizzen of the Queen Charlotte, besides crippling her severely otherwise. 
The colors were immediately pulled down on all the vessels, except the 
Little Belt, on which they had been nailed to the mast. She was a small 
craft, and carried one small gun, perhaps a swivel. She tried to escape, 
but was soon brought to and made to surrender. 

Our surrender was unconditional. All the prisoners who were not 
wounded were put on board the Porcupine, afterwards landed at Cannon 
River, and sent from thence to Chillicothe. The conduct of Commodore 
Perry was magnanimous, every kindness being shown to the wounded 
and prisoners, and made a deep impression in his favor upon all our 
hearts. He showed himself as humane towards a fillen, as he had shown 
himself brave in the presence of a resisting foe. The captain of the 
schooner Porcupine, to which we were transferred, was equally kind ; he 
ordered food and grog to be served to us when we went on board, which 
was at an unseasonable horn", and quite unexpected, being but the dic- 
tate of his humanity. 

"We were kept on board this vessel for three days, after which we 
were landed at Cannon River, and put in charge of General Harrisox. 
Here we lay five days, when we were sent to Fort Stephenson, and 
thence directly to Chillicothe by way of Columbus and Lancaster. Here 
we were kept till the following September. 

"While there I was allowed to go out to work on a farm, my employer 
being responsible for my safe return. 

One day I was summoned, quite unexpectedly, to return to my quar- 
ters, when I learned that some Irish naturalized citizens had been taken 
in arms against the British, and were ordered to execution as traitors. 
Upon which General Scott had given orders that twice the number of 
English prisoners should be chosen by lot from among us, and suffer a 
similar fate if they were put to death. I drew one of the fatal numbers, 
and was kept in close confinement for five weeks, awaiting, the result of 
the affair. 



84 

I Tvas finally taken back to Fort Stephenson, and from thence to 
Cleveland, where I arrived about the 1st of October. I remained there 
nntil the 20th, when I came to Hudson, Summit Co., Ohio, and have 
lived there ever since. 

THE MAN WHO HANDED PERRY HIS FLAG. 

The only survivor of Perey's Flag Ship, the Lawrence, other 
than Dr. Usher Paesons, is Mr. Hosea Saegeant who was 
present also at Fort Stephenson, as above detailed. We con- 
tinue his account, taking it up from the point where we left it 
above. 

Seven men of Capt. Hunter's Company at Fort Stephenson volunteered 
for Perry's Fleet, Mr. Hosea Sargeant being one of the seven. A 
squad of thirteen was made up in the Fort, and these proceeded in a 
boat to Fort Meigs, where twenty-nine others joined them, making 
forty-two in all. These reported themselves to the Lawrence^ where 
twelve of them, including Mr. Sargeant, were retained on board, and 
the others dispersed throughout the fleet. 

When the battle of Lake Erie was commenced Mr. Sargeant was 
stationed at gun No. 9, where he stood with crowbar and hand-spike to 
obey the orders of the Captain of the guns. Throughout the desperate 
fight waged by the Lawrence with her enemies, Mr. Sargeant never 
moved from the gun. All but two of the guns' crew of nine were killed 
or„ mortally wounded, and many of those sent to fill their places were 
also shot down. Gun after gun was dismounted, and at last No. 9 was 
also knocked over. Only one gun now remained mounted, and Lieut. 
Yarnall summoned the men forward to man that gun. As they 
went forward Mr. Sargeant saw Perry pass over the ship's side into 
the boat. As he stood in the boat, with the rope cast off from the vessel, 
Perry suddenly ordered his signal flag hauled down and given him. 
Mr. Sargeant and another man stood by the flag haulyards and at 
once pulled it down. Mr. Sargeant rolled it up in a wad and threw it 
to Perry, who caught it. The boat then put off. Perry standing 
erect whilst round shot and grape shot made the waters seethe around 
the boat. 

The solitar}' gun left usable on the Lawrence had been fired twice, and 
was about to be fired again when Lieut. Yarnall handed down the flag, 
resistance becoming hopeless. A faint cheer came from the British ship, 
but the prize was not seized, and in a few minutes she once more hoisted 
her colors. After the colors were struck, the crew of the Lawrence had 
nothing to do but watch the battle, which they did with great interest. 

After the battle, the Laicrence was turned into a hospital, Dr. Usher 
Parsons, assisted by surgeons of Harrison's Army, worked nobly in 
alleviating suffering and saving lives, and Mr. Sargeant held the patients 
at many an operation. 



85 

Eight days were tlrns spent on the Lawrence, "when Sargeakt went to 
Erie and was put in charge of the prize schooner Chippewa. In a few 
days he was recalled to the Army, and remained with Harkison during 
the campaign. During the chase of the British across the river Thames, 
one village was entered where all but the old and feeble people had fled 
in terror, taking their treasures with them. It came on to bad weather, 
and our soldiers had leave to sleep in the houses, provided they touched 
none of the property left, nor interfered in any way with the domestic 
arrangements of the occupants. Whilst with Harrisois's Army a 
number of battles were fought, and in all of them Mr. Sargeant took 
part. His time expiring on the 23d of September, 1814, whilst at Fort 
Erie, opposite Buffalo, on the Canada side, he at once went home to 
Maine, removing to Boston in 1819, where he has resided ever smce, 
being engaged in the provision trade. 



THE STORY AS TOLD BY A SAILOR. 

Ben. Flemming, 78 years of age, a resident of Erie, Pa., 
relates his experience to us, as follows. Mr. Flemming- was a 
sailor on board tlie Niagara in the battle of Lake Erie. His 
recollections of the memorable events, in which he was an actor 
are fresh, and his recital of them is given with an animation 
rarely seen in one so aged. He says the Niagara was not badly 
injured when Com. Peery came on board, as the enemy's fire 
had been directed mainly to the flag ship. " Every man on the 
Niagara,''' said Mr. Flemming " had made up his mind never to 
give up the ship before Commodore Perry came ; but after the 
flag came aboard, not an inch could have been forced from us while 
a plank floated. We knew the importance of maintaining the 
flag, and were proud of the trust. The shot flew all about us, 
but I did not receive a scratch." 

The second day after the battle two Indians came out of the 
hold of the Detroit, where they had been secreted since the 
battle. They were starved out at last, and sneaked upon deck 
to get something to eat. Commodore Perry was on deck when 
the Indians were brought to him. The Commodore asked them 

" Where did you come from ?" 

The Indians replied that they had been in the hold, and Perry 
asked — 

"What were you doing on board the Detroit?''' 



86 

Tlie reply was tliat tliev liad been brougiit aboard for sbarp 
shooters, but the rascals denied having shot at the Americans 
during the entire action, saying they went into the hold soon 
after the commencement of the battle. 

Like all others who knew him, Mr. Fle^^iming never speaks of 
the Commodore but in sentiments of the highest esteem. 



SURYIVOES OF THE BATTLE. 

The folloAving are believed to be the names of all the survi- 
vors of the Battle of Lake Erie. The Eastern illustrated papers 
have done great injustice by publishing an incomplete list of 
names, and representing them as a full list of the survivors. 
We gii^e their names, their position in the battle, and present 
residence as far as knov\m : 

Stephen Champlin, Sailing Master and Commander of the 
Scorpion; now a Post Captain, and residing in Buffalo. 

J. B. Montgomery, Midshipman in the Niagara ; now a Post 
Captain, and in command of the Pacific squadron. 

Hugh N. Page, Midshipman in the Tigress ; novr Post Cap- 
tain, and resides in Virginia. 

Thomas Browxell, Sailing Master on board the Ariel — 
resides in ISTewport, and is a Lieutenant. 

Usher Parsons, Acting Surgeon of the Flag Ship, and of the 
fleet ; resides in Providence, and is the last surviving Commis- 
sioned officer of the scpadron. 

Azeal AVilkinson, Pilot of the Ariel. 

HosEA Sargeant, a Volunteer from Gen. Harrison's Army, 
was a gunner on the Lawrence ; lives at Boston. 

W. T. Taliaferro, a Volunteer from Harrison's Army : 
now resides, as a Ph^^sician, in Cincinnati. 

Benjamin Talmon, Gunner on the Caledonia. 

John Tucker, Powder-boy of the Caledonia. 

Benjamin Flemming, a Sailor on the Niagara ; lives in Erie. 

The following, who were mostly volunteers from Harrison's 
Army, are believed to be still living, to wit : 

Thomas H. Bradford, Nathan Holburt, John Norris, 
William Blair, James Artus, Rowland S. Parker, James 
Lanman, of Erie. 



87 

Let us not forget, in tliis connection, to accord to Rhode Island, 
tlie proud position she held in that memorable battle. Rhode 
Island has justly claimed that the victory on Lake Erie was 
peculiarly a Rhode Island triumph. For Perry took with him. 
from J^ewport a hundred and fifty men. Four of the nine 
commanders and iiTe of the other officers were from that State. 
Most of the guns were under their command. Dr. Parsons says 
" there has never been an expedition set on foot in this country 
where so large a portion of the officers hailed from one State, or 
accomplished so much work as was done by Rhode Islanders on 
Lake Erie. 



DESPATCHES. 

The first despatch of the victory was the one which contained 
the famous sentence, •'' We have met the enemy and they are 
ours." It was sent to General Harrison, but was opened by 
Gen. Cass, as appears from the letter of Gen. Cass, and read thus : 

Dear General: — We have met the enemy and they are ours. Two 
ships, two brigs, one schooner and one sloop. 

Yours with great respect and esteem, 

O. H. PERRY. 

The first despatch to the Navy Department was as follows : 

U. S. Brig Niagara, ) 

Off the West Sister, head of Lake Erie, \ 
September, 10th, 1813, 4 p. m. ) 

Sir : — It has pleased the Almighty to give to the arms of the United 
States a signal victory over their enemies on this lake. 

The British squadron consisting of two ships, two brigs, one schooner, 
and one sloop, have this moment smrendered to the forces under my 
command, after a sharp conflict. 

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

O. H. PERRY. 

The Hon. Wm. Jones, Secretary of the Navy. 

Perry's second dispatch to the NaAW Department, giving 

details, was as follows : 

IT. S. Schooner Ariel, ) 

Put-in-Bay, September 13, 1813. ) 

Sir : — In my last I informed you that we had captured the enemy's 
fleet on this lake. I have now the honor to giye you the most important 
particulars of the action. 



88 

On the morning of the 10th mstant, at sunrise, thej were discovered 
from Put-iu-baj", where I lay at anchor with the squadron under my 
command. We got under way, the wind light at S. W., and stood for 
them. At ten A. M. the wind hauled to S. E. and brought us to wind- 
ward : formed the line, and bore up. At fifteen minutes before twelve 
the enemy commenced firing; at five minutes before twelve the action 
commenced on our part. Finding the fire verj^ destructive owing to their 
long guns, and its being mostly directed at the Lawrence^ I made sail, 
and directed the other vessels to follow, for the purpose of closing with 
the enemy. Every brace and bowline being soon shot away, she became 
unmanageable, notwithstanding the great exertions of the sailing master. 
In this situation she sustained the action upwards of two hours, within 
canister distance, until every gun was rendered useless, and the greater 
part of the crew either killed or wounded. Finding she could no longer 
annoy the enemy, I left her in charge of Lieut. Yarnall, who, I was 
convinced from the bravery already displayed by him, would do what 
would comport with the honor of the flag. At half past two, the wind 
springing up, Capt. Elliott was enabled to bring his vessel, the Niagara^ 
gallantly into close action. I immediately went on board of her, when 
he anticipated my wishes by volunteering to bring the schooners, which 
had been kept astern by the lightness of the wind, into closer action. It 
was with unspeakable pain that I saw, soon after I got on board the 
Niagara, the flag of the Lawrence come down ; although I was perfectly 
sensible she had been defended to the last, and that to have continued to 
make a show of resistance would have been a wanton sacrifice of the 
remains of her brave crew. But the enemy was not able to take posses- 
sion of her, and circumstances soon peraiitted her flag again to be hoisted. 
At forty-five minutes past two the signal was made for " closer action." 
The Niagara being very little injured, I determined to pass through the 
enemy's line ; bore up and passed ahead of their two ships and a brig, 
giving a raking fire to them from the starboard guns, and to a large 
scjiooner and sloop from the larboard side, at half pistol shot distance. 
The smaller vessels, at the time, having got within grape and canister 
distance, under the direction of Capt. Elliott, and keeping up a well 
directed fire, the two ships, a brig, and schooner, surrendered, a schooner 
and sloop making a vain attempt to escape. 

Those officers and men who were immediately under my observation, 
evinced the greatest gallantry; and I have no doubt that all others 
conducted themselves as became American oflScers and seamen. 

Lieutenant Yarnall, first of the Lawrence, although several times 
wounded, refused to quit the deck. 

Midshipman Forrest, (doing duty as n Lieutenant,) and sailing master 
Taylor, were of great assistance to me. 

I have great pain in stating to 5'ou the death of Lieut. Brooks, of the 
marines, and midshipman Lauu, both of the Jjawrence, and midshipman 
•ToiLN Clark of the Scorpion ; they were valuable and promising oflScers. 



89 

Mr. Hambletox, purser, «wlio volunteerecl his services on deck, was 
seyerely wounded, late in the action; midshipmen CLAXTOxand Swaht- 
woTJT of the Lawrence^ were seyerely wounded. 

On board the Niagara^ Lieuts. Smith and Edwards, and midshipman 
Webster, (doing duty as sailing master,) behayed in a yery handsome 
manner. 

Capt. BREyoosT, of the army, who acted as a yolunteer in the capacity 
of a marine officer, on board that yessel, is an excellent and braye officer, 
and with his musketry did great execution. 

Lieutenant Tt7r:ner, commanding the Caledonia, brought that yessel 
into action in the most able manner, and is an officer that, in all situa- 
tions may be relied on. 

The Ariel, Lieut. Packet, and Scorpion, Sailing Master CHAMPLrs", 
were enabled to get early into action, and were of great seryice. 

Capt. Elliott speaks in the highest terms of 'hlr. Magrath, Purser, 
who had been despatched in a boat on seryice, preyious to my getting on 
board the Xiagara; and being a seaman, since the action has rendered 
essential seryice in taking charge of the prizes. 

Of Captain Elliott, already so well known to the Goyernment, it 
would almost be superfluous to speak. In this action he eyinced his 
characteristic brayery and judgment ; and since the close of the action has 
giyen me the most able and essential assistance. 

I haye the honor to enclose you a return of the killed and wounded, 
together with a statement of the relatiye force of the squadrons. The 
captain and fii'st lieutenant of the Queen Charlotte, and first lieutenant of 
the Detroit were killed ; Capt. Barclay, senior officer, and the command- 
er of the Lady Prdvost, seyerely wounded. The commanders of the 
Hunter and Chippewa slightly wounded. 

Their loss in killed and wounded I haye not yet been able to ascertain ; 
it must, howeyer, haye been yery great. 

Yery respectfully, I haye the honor to be, sh, your most obedient ser- 
vant, ' O. H. PERRY. 

The Hon. Wai. Joxes, Secretary of the Xayy. 



statement op the force op the BRITISH SQUADRON. 

Sbip JD&troit — 19 guns, 1 on pivot, and 2 howitzers. Ship Queen Char- 
lotte — 17 guns, 1 howitzer. Schooner Lady Prevost — 13 gans, 1 howitzer. 
Bng Hunter — 10 guns. Sloo]) Little Belt — 3 guns. Schooner Chippewa 
— 1 gun and 2 swivels. Total, 63 guns. 

STATEMENT OF THE FORCE OF THE UNITED STATES SQUADRON. 

Brig Lawrence — 20 guns. Brig Niagara — 20 guns. Brig Caledonia — 3 
guns. Schooner Ariel — 1 guns (one burst early in the action). Schooner 



90 

Scorpion — 2 guns. Schooner Somers — 2 guns and 2 swivels. Sloop 
Trippe — 1 gun. Scliooner Tigress — 1 gun. Schooner Porcupine — 1 gun. 
Total 54 o'uns. 



List of Killed and Wounded on hoard the United States Squadron, under 
command of 0. H. Ferrij^ Esq.^ in the action of 10th September^ 1813, tiz.: 

On board the Lawrence — Killed — John Brooks, Lieut. Marines ; flenry 
Laub, Midshipman ; Christian Mayhew; Qr. Master ; James W. Allen, 

seaman ; Joseph Kennedy, do. ; John C. Kelly, private in the Reg't ; 

John Smith, seaman; Wm. Cranston, do.; Andrew Michael, do.; John 
Hoffman, do. ; Charles Pohig, do. ; Nelson Peters, do. ; James Jones, do. ; 
John Rose, do.; James Carty, sailmakefs mate; Thomas Butler, sea- 
man ; Wilson Mays, carpenter's mate ; James Brown, seaman ; Ethelred 
Sykes, Landsman; Philip Starpley, corporal marines; Jesse Harland, 
private; Abner Williams, do. — 22. Wounded — John J. Yarnall, 1st 
lieut. ; Dulaney Forrest, 2d do.; Wm. N. Taylor, sailing-master; Samuel 
Hambleton, purser ; Thomas Caxton, midshipman; Augustus Swartwout, 
do.; Jonas Stone, carpenter; Wm. C. Keen, master at -arms; Francis 
Mason, quarter master ; John ISTewen, do, ; Joseph Lewis, do. ; Ezekiel 
Fowler, do.; John E. Brown, gunner; Wm. Johnson, boatswain's mate; 
James Helan, do ; George Cornell, carpenter's mate; Thomas Hammond, 
armorer ; Wm. Thompson, seaman ; Geo. Varnum. James Moses, Wm, 
Roe, Joseph Denning, Wm. Daring, John Clay, Stephen Fairfield, George 
Williams, Lannou Huse, James Waddington, Jno. Burdeen, John Burn- 
ham, Andrew Mattison, Jeremiah Esterbrooke, Henry Schroeder, Benoni 
Price, Thomas Robinson, Peter Kinsle}^, Nathan Chapman, Thos. Hill, 
Barney McClair, Wm. Dawson, Westerly Johnson, Sam'l Spywood, 
Robert Hill, Francis Cummings, Thomas Reed, Charles Vandyke, Wm. 
Simpson, Jesse Williams, James.Hardley, James Bird, marines ; William 
Burnett, Wm. Baggs, David Christie, Henry Vanpool, Thos, Triff, lands- 
men, Elijah Parton, John Adams, Charles Harrington, Wm, B, Perkins, 
Nath'l Wade, boy, Newport Hazzard, boy— 81. [On the morning of the 
action the sick list of the Lawrence contained thirty- one unfit for duty.] 

On board the Niagara — Killed — Peter IMorel, seaman, Isaac Hordy, 
do.— 2 Wounded— John J, Edwards, lieut.; John C. Cummings, 
midshipman ; Edward Martin, seaman ; Wm. Davis do. ; Joshua Trapnill, 
marine, Ronval Hall, seaman, George Piatt, Elias Wiley,. Henry David- 
son, John M. Stribuck, John Freeman, James Lansford, Thos, Wilson, 
Chas. Davidson, Daniel Bennet, John Filton, boatswain's mate, Sergeant 
Mason, marine, Corporal Scott, Thomas Miller, John Rumas, Geo. Mc- 
Manomy, Geo, Scofield, Samuel Cochran — 25, 

On board the Cdledonia — Wounded — James Artus, Isaac Perkins, 
James Phillips — 3. 

On board the 6'y;?ic?'S— Wounded— Chas. Ordeen, Godfrey Bowman— 2. 

On board tlie ylne^— Killed— John White, boatswain's mate— 1. 



91 

Wounded — TTm. Sloss, seaman, Robert TTilson, do., John Lucas, lands- 
man — 3. 

On board tlae Trippe— Wounded — Isaac Green, soldier, Jolin Xiles, 
do.— 2. 

On board the Porcupine — Xone killed or wounded. 

On board the Scorpion — Killed — John Clark, midsliipman, John Svlha- 
mamer, landsman — 2. 

On board the Tigress — Xoue killed or wounded. 

KECAPITULATIOX. 

[Two davs previous to the action, fifty seven men unlit for service in 
the small vessels.] 

Killed. Wounded. Total. 
Lawrence ...27 61 88 



]Sriagara, 2 25 27 

Caledonia, 3 3 

Somers, 2 2 

Ariel, , 13 4 

Trippe, 2 2 

Soo'-pion, ._ 2 2 

32 96 128 



THE EFFECT OF THE VICTORY. 

It need not be told the intelligent reader tliat Perry"s victory 
turned the tide of battle in our favor ; tbat it gave us not only 
command of this Lake, but it caused tbe Britisli to flee from 
Maiden. 

While Peery"s fleet had been at the head of Lake Erie, Gen. 
Harrisox was concentrating his forces at and near the mouth 
of Portage river, now in Ottawa Count}^ Immediately after the 
battle of the 10th, Perry's fleet was engaged in transporting 
Harrison's troops by the way of the Islands to Maiden, and on 
the 27th of September the troops landed on the Canada main 
land, marching to Maiden, which ^they found evacuated ; and 
following up the advantage, on the 5th of October fought the 
famous battle of the Thames, at which Teceaiseh was killed and 
the British force routed. Gen. Cass and Com. Perry acted as 
volunteer aids to Gen. Harrison in that battle. These events 
restored Detroit to us and Gen. Cass was appointed Governor, 
and Harrison and Perry, the last of October, sailed for Erie 
and Buffalo. 



92 

HOW THE NEWS OF PEEKY's VICTORY WAS RECEIVED IX CLEVELAND. 

The joyful news of the result of the battle flew as fast as ex- 
press could carry it, and the whole frontier Avas jubilant. The 
day of its deliverance from the tomahawk and scalping knife 
had come, and all breathed easier. 



From Gapt. Levi Johxsox Ave get the following particulars as 
to affairs on the day of that battle and subsequent thereto, at 
Cleveland. Gapt. Johnso:^" says that on the morning of the 
memorable 10th, he and a gang of men Avere just putting the 
finishing touches to the first court house and jail, which stood 
right in front of the present 1st Presbyterian Ghurch. They 
thouo-ht thev heard thunder, but lookinsf out of the windows 
saw no clouds, and concluded it Avas the roar of cannon. They 
were expecting to hear ncAVS, knowing that Perhy's fleet had 
passed up the lake. They all went to the bank of the lake, 
near where Mr. Whitaker's house noAV stands on Water street. 
All the villagers assembled there, numbering perhaps thirty. 
They could distinguish betAveen the reports of the larger and 
smaller guns. They staid on the bank until the reports ceased, 
and the last four or five reports being from heaA^y guns, and it 
being knoAvn that the Americans had the heaA^iest ordnance, 
they concluded that the victory was ours and then on the spot 
they gave cheers for Perry. 

About tAA^o days after this, Gapt. Johxson went from Cleve- 
land up to Put-in-Bay in one of the large flat bottomed boats 
built here by Gen. Jessup, for army transport. These boats 
Avere batteau like, could carry fifty men and were built to carry 
Harrison's army across to Maiden. One Avas left behind, and 
this Gapt. Johnson loaded AAdth potatoes, &c., and AA^ent up to 
the troops at Put-in-Bay. He arrived there before the British 
prisoners had left their vessels. Gom. Barclay was yet on 
board the Detroit, and he saAv him doAA'n in the hold of his ves- 
sel, badly wounded. Gen. Jessup took the boat to assist in car- 
rying the troops to Maiden, and Gapt. J. got passage back to 
Cleveland on the Somers, the Gaptain acting as pilot. 



Irad Kelley has kindly, at our request, noted doAvn his re- 
collections of the day of the battle. He says : 



93 

" In reply to your inquiry respecting the memorable battle on Lake 
Erie, of September 10th, 1813, I can say that I heard it with others, 
from the shore of the Lake, near the present residence of Gov. Wood, 
nine miles west of Cleveland, and about sixty-five h'om the scene of 
action. 

"At first it seemed like distant thunder. A few minutes, however, 
satisfied all that the fleets had met in deadly strife, to determine- who 
should have control of these inland seas, and the fertile regions bordering 
the same ; to decide the fate of the frontier settlements for weal or woe. 
Knowing as we did that our force was only two-thirds that of the British, 
in men and metal, you may well imagine the intense anxiety every one 
felt who heard the roa;r of the cannon which were then deciding whether 
we were to leave our homes to pillage and fire, or remain in safety from 
the tomahawk and scalping knife. But when our anxious suspense was 
relieved by the glorious news that we had conquered, that we had cap- 
tured their whole fleet, with all on board, that our homes, wives and 
little ones were safe, it is hardly possible to describe the change in every 
face.' Gloom and anxiety had fled, and a joy, which seemed to tell the 
glad tidings before the mouth gave utterance, lit up every face. This im- 
portant victory opened a safe passage for the American army which soon 
after landed below Fort Maiden, on the Canada shore, without opposition. 
The large guns from this Fort had been taken to arm theh fleet ; the 
same whose destructive and deadly work had compelled the Lawrence to 
strike, were now in our possession in Put-in-Bay. 

Gen. Pkoctor had retreated and chosen a strong position at Moravian 
Town on the Thames, where Gen. Harrison soon after gave him battle. 
His brave Kentucky cavalry charged the enemy's center (composed of 
their whole regular force,) with such resistless impetuosity that it soon 
gave way, and all were made prisoners. Tecumseh was killed, and the 
Indians put to flight. This powerful army which so often had fought us 
in Northern Ohio and Michigan, and dared to attack our fortresses, and 
which had spread terror through our frontier settlements, was thus de- 
stroyed and dispersed by this glorious victory, for these victories are so 
intimately connected that they can hardly be described separately. 

I visited the fleet some weeks after the battle, and was shown where 
the Captain and First Lieutenant of the Queen Charlotte stood when one 
ball from the Niagara killed both, as a specimen of destruction each 
broadside of these ships caused to the Detroit aud Queen^ which by care- 
lessness, and by a sudden shift of wind, had become foul of each other. 
This change of wind left the Magara a short distance to the windward, 
when the grape and canister shot from her short guns, filled to the muz- 
zle, poured death and destruction into these entangled ships. The smoke 
from our guns being carried into their faces in clouds, increased the diffi- 
culty of disentangling, which soon rendered resistance useless. Thus, 
these ships, making two-thirds the enemy's strength — which with their 
long suns had borne down on our flag ship with such destructive and 



94 

deadly power as to force our commander to abandon it — were compelled 
to surrender to the gallant Pebry, 

Lieut. Elliott (since Commodore) nobly gave up tlie command of the 
jS'ictgara to Perry, and volunteered to bring our small vessels into action, 
and pursuing such of the enemy's vessels as attempted to escape, he suc- 
ceeded in capturing them. Allow me here to observe that I became 
fully satisfied, from officers of high rank, who were in this battle that 
Com. Elliott was entitled to great praise and no blame in the part the 
took in winning this glorious victory." 

Mrs. LoxG. a part of wliose reminiscences are given above, 
also says: 

Previous to the lOtli of September we learned at Cleveland that Peuey 
was on the Lake with his fleet. The fleet did not pass within sight of 
the village. We knew that the British were prowling about, and we felt 
that a meeting was inevitable. On the morning of the 10th, Dr. Long 
came into the house and said that the fleets had met, for he could hear 
the roar of cannon. This was between eleven and twelve o'clock. We 
went out to the bank of the lake, and sat until 4 o'clock, P. M., when the 
firing ceased. The firing was at intervals of from fourteen to fifteen 
minutes. The night of the 10th was a sleepless one to many, for if the 
British had gained the victory, we felt that our little village was in great 
danger. But the next night the news came of Perry's gallant victory, 
and joy at once took the place of fear. There was great rejoicing on the 
part of the people, and the old swivel was brought into requisition. I 
have seen it stated that Com. Perry never was in Cleveland, but I am 
firm in the belief that he passed through the village. The date I cannot 
remember. 

Mr. AViLLiAM Coleman, of Euclid, gives us tlie following ac- 
count of tlie lOtli in tliat town. He says: 



" On the da}' of the battle nearly all the men of Euclid were raising a 
log house for Mr. Hale, within half a mile of the lake. The day was 
clear and beautiful, and the lake was still, hardly a ripple on the water. 
When the firing commenced it was thought to be thunder, but we were 
soon convinced the long expected and anxiously looked for battle was 
then taking place. The feelings of all soon became so excited that we 
left our work half done, rushed to the lake, and listened eagerly until the 
battle was over. The firing tapered off" with now and then a heavy gun, 
which we afterwards learned was fired at the Little Beli^ (British) wiiich 
tried to run awa}', when she found the battle was lost. The prisoner al- 
luded to in the former part of my statement was on the Little Belt at the 
time, and said the last shot fired in that battle came in through the stern 
of his vessel and cut the captain into halves. The second officer then 



95 

ordered the colors to be struck, and that ended the ' Battle of Lake 
Erie.' " 

Mr. GoEXELius Thoepe, of Euclid, was one of those present 
at the barn-raising to which Mr. CoLEMAiT refers. ' vHe gives us 
the names of the following, present citizens of Euclid, who also 
were at the "bee," to wit: Tho^ias McIleath, Samuel 
McIleath, Lyman Ceosby, Abnee Ceosby and Thomas 
Ceosby. As to that barn-raising, Mr. Thoepe says, everything 
was going on lively, CA^ery man sharply at work, logs were going 
up and corner men notching them down, when about noon was 
heard a report. "What's that?" everyone asked. "A can- 
non," every one replied ; and every axe dropped, and all ran 
for the lake, expecting to see the vessels, as the leports were so 
distinct. All staid on the bank for a while, none went back to 
the raising ; some went to their homes, and some went to Cleve- 
land to prepare for the worst. Not another stroke of work was 
done that day. 



THE XEWS HEARD TX AVARREN, TRTBIBULL COUXTY. 

[From the Tkump of Fasie, published in Warren, Trumbull Co., O., of Sept. 14, 1813.] 

" By the express mail we have received the good news that Com. Perry 
has made an attack upon the British fleet, and after a dreadful conflict 
has succeeded in capturing six of his vessels. When the mail left San- 
dusky, the prisoners were landing. It is reported that the slaughter on 
board the American vessels was so dreadful that Com. Perry's vessel 
had but nine well men after the battle. This part of the story is almost 
incredible ; a concpiered ship may be in this situation, but that tlie victor 
should be so, is not probable." 



A thoughtful friend in Buffalo Avrites as follows : 

Buffalo, Aug. 21, 1860. 

Editors of the Herald : — The letters herewith inclosed are copies 
form two of a number in my possession, that were written upon this 
frontier to a friend in New England. They contain some historical 
details, which, though not entirely new, may be interesting to the readers 
of the Herald^ especially at this particular time, when thousands are 
preparing to visit your beautiful city, to appropriately celebrate one of 
the marked achievements of the present centurj'. 

Truer patriotism don't exist than is found in the hearts of these same 



96 

whose homes are on the borders of these lakes, and in no way can they 
better evince it in time of peace and prosperity, than in thus bringing 
to remembrance the great men and great deeds that effectually rolled 
back the almost oyerwhelmiug tide of British aggression and Indian 
cruelty from our thousand miles of lake coast. 

Respectfully yours, &c. 

HOW THE 2^WS OF PERRT's YICTOEY GOT TO BUFFALO ; ITS EFFECT 
UPON THE PEOPLE, AXD HOW THEY ACTED, ETC. 

Buffalo Tillage, Sept. 22d, 1813. 

Dear Sam: — I wish you could have been here last Monday evening to 
see and hear the noisy outburst of joy manifested by the crowd around 
the Post-office when the western mail arrived. It was occasioned by 
the news of a hard fought naval battle, and briliant victory by Commo- 
dore Perrt, at the other end of the lake. The first intimation that om- 
villagers had of this glorious fight, was from a letter from David Long 
to Major Fred. Miller, dated at Cleveland, Sept. 13th, 1813. The 
Major read the letter to the people, who were assembled around the door 
of the Post-office, and such a shout as came from the throats of that 
assemblage, you never heard in your lite. 

The letter was published in the Gazette yesterday. Here is a copy of 
it: 

Dear Sir : — The mail carrier from the west brings the pleasing intel- 
ligence of the capture of six of the British vessels, on the 10th inst., 
between 1 and 5 o'clock, p. :m. The action is said to have been very 
obstinate ; the cannonading was heard at this place. Our fleet arrived 
at Put-in Bay Island with the prizes. The particulars we shall get by 
tlie next mail. In haste, your obedient servant, 

DAVID LOXG. 

Many who heard this letter read, believed it to be a~[hoax, and said 
the news was too good to be true, but those best acquainted with Com- 
modore Perry, and the officers under him, (the metal of some of those 
fellows was tested, in cutting out the Adams and Caledonia at Fort Erie 
a year ago,) was ready to receive the news as true. The same mail 
brought a letter to Seth Grosvenor, merchant, of this village, from 
WiL Foster, of Erie, dated Sept. 19th, in which he says : 

Bill Lati.more has just returned from Sandusky, and while there he 
was on board several of the vessels since their action. He reports the 
the victory to have been most complete of any in Naval annals. The 
action commenced between the Lawrence and Detroit^ which was fol- 
lowed by the Charlotte and one of the smaller vessels. The Lawrence 
sustained the whole fire of three vessels, mitil she had every man killed 
or wounded but seven, and the last gun she fired Commodore Perry 



97 

helped to work it ; lie then gave orders to have her towed out of the line 
as useless, and took his flag and went on board the Niagara. 

The British Commander, Bahclay, had his other hand shot oflp, and 
the slaughter on board the Detroit and Charlotte was most terrible. Not 
a mast was left standing on either of them. The Captain of the Boxer 
was killed by a single shot, the first one received from the Enterprise. 
His left arm was torn off, and his body cut in two. The Commander of 
the Enterprise was mortally wounded by the first shot they received from 
the enemy, but he refused to quit the deck until he had received the 
sword of the enemy, when he immediately expired. 

You can easily imagine the effect of this news upon our villagers, and 
the soldiers stationed in this vicinity. I can not describe it to you. Be 
assured we all breathe easier, for we believe that a blow has been struck 
by our noble tars that will be felt throughout our whole lake frontier. 

This forenoon !Major Chapin fired a salute from the battery in honor 
of the victory, and this evening every tenement of the village, that has a 
window, is to be brilliantly illuminated. 

The stage driver says it was reported in Cleveland that Gen. Haerison 
and his Army had been in motion for several days, and were supposed 
to be at, or near, Maiden. Another report has just reached us through 
Canada, to the effect that Harrison has actually taken Maiden with six 
hundred prisoners, and that Gen. Proctor was killed. 

We are waiting in intense anxiety to hear facts, for we have been so 
frequently imposed upon by these Canadian stories that no reliance is 
placed upon them. 

I have many other items of news that I would like to add, but mnst 
defer until next week. Yom's, truly, . 

VIEWS OF A BRITISH ALLY 
[ From, the Bctfai^o Gazette, Nov, 2, 1813. j 

Speech of Tecumseh to Gen. Proctor at AmherstbiirgJi, Sep. loth, 1813. 

The British had heared of the loss of their fleet and were preparing 

to retreat from Maiden. Tecumseh was in ignorance of the result of 

the Battle. 

Father, listen. Our fleet has gone out : we know they have fought, 
we heard the great guns; but know nothing of what has happened to 
our father vvitli the one arm. * Our ships are gone one way and we are 
very much astonished to see our father tying up everything and prepar- 
ing to run away the other, without letting his red children know what 
his intentions are. 

You always told us that you would never draw your foot off British 
ground ; but now we see you drawing back, and we are sorry to see our 
father doing so without seeing the enemy. 

* Com. Baeclat lost an arm at the battle of Trafalgar. 

7 



98 

"We must compare our father's conduct to a fat animal that carries its 
tail upon its back ; but when affrig-hted, it drops it between its legs and 
runs off. 

Father, listen. The Americans haye not yet defeated us by land, 
neither are ice sure that tliey have done so by icater; we therefore wish 
to remain here and fight the enemy, should they make their appearance, 

MISCELLA^fEOrS. 

Frarn '-'Views of the Campaign of the Xorth Vrestern Army^'' by S. R. 
Bkown. Albany, 1814. {Out of print and rare.) 

The undaunted bravery of Admiral Barclay entitled him to a better 
fate. To the loss of the day was superadded grievous and dangerous 
wounds. He had, before, lost one arm ; it was now his hard fortune to 
lose the use of the other by a shot which carried away the blade of the 
right shoulder ; a cannister shot made a voilent contusion on his hip. 
His wounds were for some days considered mortal. Every possible atten- 
tion was paid to his situation. "When Commodore Perry sailed for Buffalo, 
he was so far recovered that he took passage on board our fleet. The 
citizens saw the affecting spectacle of Harrison and Perry supporting 
the wounded British hero, still unable to walk without help, from the 
beach to his lodgings. 

On board o f the Detroit, twenty-four hours after her surrender, were 
found snugly stowed away in the hold, two Indian Chiefs, who had the 
courage to go on board at Maiden, for the purpose of acting as sharp 
shooters, to kill our officers. One had the courage to ascend into the 
round-top and discharge his piece ; but the whizzing of shot, splinters, 
and bits of rigging soon made the place too warm for him. He descended 
faster than he went up. At the moment he reached the deck the frag- 
ments of a sailor's head struck his comrade's face and covered it with 
blood and brains. He vociferated the savage interjection " quoh ! " and 
both sought safety below. 



ORIGIN OF THE SQUADRON ON LAKE ERIE AND 
ITS FATE. 

In 1796, Capt. Daniel Dobbins, arrived at Erie, it being the 
year that General Anthony Wayne died there, whose funeral 
he attended. At that time there were on Lake Erie but three 
or four small craft, and none on the upper lakes belonging to the 
United States. The British had quite a number of vessels of 
100 tons and over, employed mostly by the North Western fur 
Company. Captain Dobbins soon after commanded a small 
vessel for many years in lake navigation, prior to 1812 when 
war was declared. He was at this time at Mackinac, an Ameri- 
can fort which the Canadians and Indians had taken by surprise, 



99 

our goYernment having neglected to notify tlie fortress of the 
war. DoBBi]!fS here lost his vessel, and after many hair-breadth 
escapes arrived at Erie late in August. Detroit had surrendered 
on the 16th, and he was immediately despatched by General 
Mead to Washington with information. After a days' examina- 
tion before the cabinet in regard to the ports and commerce on 
Lake Erie, and the best place for a naval depot and ship yard, 
he was tendered a sailing master's warrant, and ordered to 
commence building three gunboats, and report his doings to 
Commodore Ghauxcey on Lake Ontario. Two days after his 
return to Erie, viz : Sept. 26th, he cut the first stick of timber 
for the fleet himself, and employed such carpenters and ship- 
builders in that region as could be found. Chauncey arrived 
late in December with master builder Eckfobd, who furnished 
models for two 22 gun brigs. Perry arrived late in March, 
and found the keels of the large brigs laid and the gunboats 
nearly planked. Capt. Dobbixs was after this employed in 
transporting supplies from Buffalo. The gunboats were launched 
early in May and the brigs soon after. To these five vessels were 
soon after added, the five from the merchant service, purchased at 
Bufi'alo, including one captured from the British at Fort Erie, 
and taken up the rapids at Black Rock to Buffalo and Erie. 
These were the Caledonia, Capt. Perry ; the Ohio, Capt. Dob- 
bins ; the Somers, Capt. Almy ; the Trippe, Lieut. Holdup, and 
the Amelia with the invalids and medical persons, and Doctor 
Parsoiv-s. 

Congress allowed the captors of the British Squadron §200,000 
as prize money. 

On the second day after the battle, the squadron having arrived 
in Put-in-Bay, a severe gale carried away the masts of the 
Detroit and Queen. In the spring following, jury masts were 
rigged and the vessels taken to Erie. The Niagara, Lawrence, 
Caledonia, Tigress and Scorpion sailed the following summer 
under Maokinac, transporting there Croghast's army. The four 
largest vessels were sold in 1834 to George Miles, two of which, 
the Queen and Detroit sailed many years on the Lakes. The 
Lawrence and Niagara went to decay. The Caledonia stranded 
on the Beach. The Scorpion, Tigresss and Porcupine captured in 
the night by the enemy. The Chippewa stranded near Buffalo, 
and the others have long since disappeared. 



100 

BRIEF NOTICES OF THE OFFICERS 

On board the squadron on Lake Erie, commissioned and warranted in the 
action of September 10th, 1813. 

LA WEEN CE. 

O. H. Pekry, Commodore; born in South Kingston, R. I, August 23c!, 
1785 ; warranted as Midshipman, April 7, 1799 ; commissioned as Lieu- 
tenant, 1807; Master Commander, Aug., 1812; Post Captain, Sept, 10th, 
1813 ; died, Aug. 23, 1820. 

John J. Yaknall, 1st Lieutenant; warranted as Midshipman June 16, 
1809; commissioned as Lieutenant, July 24, 1813; was lost in the Bper- 
tier. 

DuLANY Forest, 2nd Lieutenant ; warranted as Midshipman, May 9th, 
1809; commissioned as Lieutenant, Dec. 9, 1814; Obit Oct. 1, 1825. 

Samuel Hambleton, Purser; commissioned, April 25, 1812; Obit 
1850. 

William V. Taylor, Ship Master ; warranted Acting Master, 1812 ; 
commissioned Lieutenant, Dec. 9, 1814 ; Master Commander, March 3, 
1831 ; Post Captain, Sept. 8, 1841 ; Obit, 1858. 

Samuel Horsley, commissioned Surgeon's Mate, March 9, 1809 ; was 
acting as Surgeon, 1813; as Surgeon, April 5, 1814; Obit Sept. 8, 1821. 

Usher Parsons, commissioned Surgeon's Mate, July 6, 1812 ; maae 
Acting Surgeon, Sept 10, 1813, and commissioned April 14, 1814 ; resigned 
April 23d, 1823. 

Thomas Breeze, Commodore's Secretary; acted as Chaplain, was 
Aid to Commodore Perry in the Lawrence in the battle. Made Purser, 
1815; Obit Oct. 12, 1846. 

John Brooks, (son of Gov. Brooks of Mass.); commissioned as 2nd 
Lieutenant of Marines, 1807 ; promoted 1809 ; killed in action by a cannon 
ball in the hip, Sept. 10, 1813. 

Midshipman Augtstus Swartwout, warranted Jan., 1812; was severe- 
ly wounded in the arm ; resigned April 18, 1820. 

' Thomas Claxton, warranted Dec. 1810; wounded in the action, 1813, 
1)y a cannon ball, which carried away his shoulder ; Obit in October 
3(1 following. 

Henry Lamb, warranted Jan. 16, 1809 ; killed in the action outright, 
by a cannon ball in Ihe side nfter being wounded in the arm. 

J. Alexander Perry, warranted 1811; commissioned as Lieutenant, 
April 1, 1822 ; He was drowned in an attempt to save a sinking officer. 
He was 2nd aid to the Commodore, being then 13 years old. 

:niagaka. 

Jesse D. Elliot, Commander of the Niagara; warranted Midshipman, 
April 4, 1804; Lieutenant, April 23, 1810; Mastvir Commanding, 1813; 
Post Captain, March, 1818; Obit, 1845. 

John J. Edwards, Midshipman, Jan. 1808; Lieutenant, July 24, 1813; 
Obit at Erie, 1814. 

Joseph E. Smeth, Midshipman, 1808 ;'^Lieutenant, March 10, 1813; 
Obit, Dec, 1813. 

Nelson Webster, Midshipman, Jan. 9, 1809 ; Lieutenant, Dec, 1814 ; 
Obit, Dec 24, 1825. 

Humphry Magrath, Purser; resigned, June 4, 1809; committed 
suicide ; he acted as Sailing Master on board the Niagara. 

Henry B. Brevoort, an army officer; Capt. of Marines; Obit, 1856. 

George Stockton, Lieut, of Marines ; a Volunteer from the army, 

Robert R. Barton, Surgeon, 1813; resigned, 1824; Obit, 1854. 

Midshipman Charles Smith, warranted, Dec, 1810; furloughed and 
obit, 1818. 



101 

Sam'l W. Adams, warranted, Jan. 16, 1809; dropt, 1815; killed in Spain. 

J. B. Montgomery, warranted Jan., 1912; Lieutenant, April, 1818; 
Master, 1839 ; Post Captain, 1850. He commands the Pacific Squadron. 

James L. Cummings, warranted Oct., 1812 ; Lieutenant, 1818 ; Obit, 
July 24, 1824. 

Rob't S. Tatem, Act. Midshipman; made Sailing Mast, 1814; Obit, 1844. 

CALEDOxNIA. 

Daniel Turner, Commander ; Midshipman, Jan. 1, 1808 ; Lieutenant, 
1812 ; Master Commander, 1825 ; Post Captain, 1835 ; Obit, 1850. He 
commanded the Pacific Squadron. 

Peleg K. Dunham, Midshipman, Jan., 1812; Lieutenant, April 1, 
Obit, Aug., 1822. 

James E. McDonald, Acting Sailing Master ; made Midshipman, 1814 
and Lieutenant, March, 1817; Obit, 1818. He killed Midshipman Senat 
in a duel, 1814. 

James Artus, Sargeant of Marines ; volunteer from Harrison's army. 

ARIEL. 

John Packet, Commander; Midshipman, Jan., 1809; Lieutenant, 
July, 1813 ; Obit, 1820. 

Thomas Brownell, Acting Sailing Master in action ; resigned ; com- 
missioned Lieutenant, Dec, 1843. 

Robert Anderson, Lieutenant of Mannes, a volunteer from Harri- 
son's Army, 

SCORPION. 

Stephen Champlin, Sailing Master, May, 1812; Lieutenant, 1815; 
Master Commander, June, 1838 ; Post Captain, Oct., 1850. 

John Clarke, Midshipman, 1812 ; killed in the action by a cannon 
ball hitting his head. 

John W. Wendell, Midshipman, June,' 1812; dismissed, 1815. 

SOMERS. 

Thomas C. Almy, Commander ; Obit at Erie, Dec, 1813. 
David C. Nichols, Midshipman, 1811; resigned, 1814. 
W. T. Taliaferro, Sargeant of Marines, now an eminent Physician 
in Cincinnati. 

TRIPPE. 

Thomas Holdup, (Thos. H. Stevens,) Midshipman, Jan., 1909 ; Lieu- 
tenant, July, 1813 ; Master Commander, March, 1825 ; Post Captain, 
1836; Obid, 1841, while in command of Navy Yard, Washington. 

James Bliss, Midshipman in 1809; Lieutenant, 1824; resigned 1814. 

James Blair, Lieut, of Marines, a volunteer from Harrison's army. 

Gamaliel Darling, Master's Mate. 

TIGRESS. 

A. M. CoNKLiN, Commander; Midshipman in 1809 ; Lieutenant, July, 
1813 ; resigned, 1820. 

Midshipman Alexander C. Stout, Midshipman, Jan. 16, 1809 ; Lieu- "^ 

tenant, 1814; Obit, 1815, on his way home from Erie to Kentucky. 

Hugh N. Page, Midshipman, 1811 ; Lieutenant, 1818 ; Master Com- 
mander, 1838 ; Post Captain, 1850 ; has retired from the navy. 

PORCUPINE. 

George Senat, Midshipman, July, 1807; Lieutenant, Dec, 1814, but 
was killed in a duel Nov. 30, by Sailing Master McDonald, while his 
commission as Lieutenant was on its way to him at Erie. 

Cornelius Denicke, Master's Mate. 

OHIO. 

Captain Daniel Dobbins, Commander ; Sailing Master, 1812, who 
rndered important service in bringing supplies from Erie, and unfor- 
tunately was absent there on the day of the battle. 



102 
WHAT WAS SAID OF THE CELEBRATION. 

The Press tliroughout tlie country spoke of the Celebration 
in the most flattering terras. Almost every press "•"n the United 
States was represented by able correspondents, and but one spir- 
it was manifested in them all — which was one of praise, as to 
the whole proceedings. The City and citizens of Cleveland may 
well be proud of their success in so loyal and stupendous an 
undertaking. It was the intention to publish liberal extracts 
from the leading papers, but our limits are too small to carry 
out the plan. 



Extract from a Letter received from, Dr. Paksoks since the 
Inauguration. 

Providence, Sept. 24, 1860. 
Harvey Rice, Esq.: 

My Dear Sir : — The Governor and Staff, Infantry and Legislators, 
arrived here on Saturday at 11 o'clock, and met with a grand reception, 
and were treated with a magnificent collation, where the praises of 
Cleveland were sounded in speeches and toasts as they ever will be in 
Rhode Island. 

We are all delighted too, in reflecting that such excellent order prevailed 
during the three days of the celebration, and that all the arrangements 
were made and conducted in a manner that reflects the highest credit on 
the citizens of Cleveland generally, and on the managers of the Inaugu- 
ration in particular — such order and propriety, everywhere manifested, I 
never beheld — no fighting, but on the contrary, sobriety and good feeling 
seemed to pervade all ranks and conditions of the countless multitude. 

With great respect and esteem, I am, dear sir, yours, truly, 

USHER PARSONS. 



COST OF THE MONUMENT AND HOW PAID FOR. 

The cost of the Perry Monument was 8,000 dollars, as agreed 
in the contract made with T. Jones & Sons. Nearly $5,000 
of this sum was obtained by voluntary subscriptions, and the 
City Council, on the receipt of a communication from the Chair- 
man of the Perry Monument Committee, stating the balance due 
to the contractors, Sept. 25, 1860, passed the resolution offered 
"oy Mr. Ballard : 



103 

Resolved^ Tliat tlie sum of Three Thousand and Eight dollars be 
appropriated from the City Treasury to T. Jones & Sons, in full of the 
balance due them on their contract for the erection of the Perry Monu- 
ment. The same to be paid one-third in six months, one-third in nine 
months, and one third in twelve months. Adopted Ayes — Ballard, 
Christian, Clark, Coonrad, Dixon, Heckman, Lewis, Marshall, 
Masters, Oviatt, Palmer, Quayle, Kezner, Russell, Sarin, Thom- 
as, WiLLARD, WORSWICK— 18- Nay— HOPKINSON— 1. 



COM. PERRY'S PORTRAIT PRESENTED TO THE CITY. 

Oct. 30, 1860, the following action was liad in the City Council 
on the receipt of a communication from Haevey Rice, Chairman 
of the Perry Monument Committee, stating that he has received 
from_0. H. Perry, only surviving son of Commodore Peery, a 
portrait in oil of the Commodore, copied by Mr. LAWSOisr of 
Lowell, from the original painting by Stewart. In compliance 
with the request of Mr. Perry he presented the portrait to the 
City of Cleveland. In the note by Mr. Perry, accompanying 
the portrait, he expresses his belief that " so patriotic a people 
as the citizens of Cleveland will value the portrait of one they 
have been pleased to honor/' 

Received and filed. 

EESOLUTIONS- 

Of Mr. Clark — That the portrait of Commodore Perry presented this 
evening to the City of Cleveland, in the name and at the request of O. 
H. Perry, Esq., his only surviving son, be accepted; and that the City 
Clerk be directed to cause the same to be handsomely framed and sus- 
pended in Council HalL 

That the thanks of the City Council be and the same are hereby 
tendered to O. H. Perry, Esq., for so valuable and acceptable a gift, and 
that the Mayor of the City be requested to communicate to him a certified 
copy of the foregoing resolutions^ 

Adopted 



104 




"^-^^^4 



3 q- 



1^ 



DIAGRAM 1. 

A. English at com- B. Americans at 
menccineiit 0/ action, coinmeiic't of action. 



1. Chippewa, 

2. Detroit, 
3 Huuter, 

4. yueen Charlotte, 

5. Lady Prevost, 

6. Little Beit. 



^^^^^ 



1. Scorpion, 

2. Ariel, 

3. Lawrence, 

4. Caledonia, 

5. JSiagara, 

6. Somers, 

1. i^orcupine, 

8. Tigress, 

9. Trippe. 



^^4 





^^4L 



^ 



4- 



2 
lAGRAIVT U. 

5. Ladv Provost, 

A. British. 9. Little Belt. 

Chippewa, 

Detroit, 

Queen Charlotte, B. Amkeican. 

Hunter, 1. Scorpion, 



a^ ^ 



2. Ariel, 

3. Lawrence, 

4. Caledonia, 

5. Niag ra, 

6. Somer.;, 






T^ 



7. Porcupine, 
S- Tit'ress, 
9. Trippe. 



D!AGRAP*/I ?U. 



^L 

,^%^ [4^^"^ 



A. British. 

1. Chippewa, 

: 2. Detroit, 

\ \ ^f 3. Hunter. 

Hf.'_ 4. *^een Charlotte. 

, '"'""' 5. Lidy Provost, 

/A 6. Little Belt. 



C, 



d4^- 



B, Americas. 

1. Scorpion, 

2. Arel, 

3 Lawrence, 

4. Caledonia, 

5. Niagara, 

6. Somers, 

7. Porcupine, 

8. TiCTess, 
9 . 9. Tripi«. 

^ . 7. H 



4. 



1^ 



,^' 






DIAGRAN/t NO. 'V. 
BEITISH LINE. AMERICAN 



Schr. Chippewa, 
Ship Detroit, 



15 ^ 



Ship Q. Charlotte, 
4. Brig Huntor, 9. Br g Caledonia 

0. Sdir. Lady Prevost, 10. Schr. Somers, 



12. Schr. TipTPss, 
LINE. 13. Sloop Trippe, 

14. Schr. Ariel, 

Brig Lawrence, 15. Schr. Scorpion. 
Niagara, 



6. Sloop Little Belt. 



11. Schr. Porcupine, 



^^^iL AMI 4 



OLIVER HAZARD PERRY, 



A^D THE 



Battle of Lake Erie. 



BY GEOEGE BAXCROFT 



In the last weeks of 1812, Oliver Hazard Perry, a lieuten- 
ant in the United States Navv, then twenty-seven years of age, 
despairing of a sea-going vessel, sent to the Secretary of the 
Navy "a tender of his services for the Lakes." Tired of inac- 
tivity, he was quickened by the fame which men even younger 
than himself had just gained on the ocean. At that time he 
held the command of a flotilla of gun-boats, in the harbor of 
Newport ; "possessing an ardent desire to meet the enemies of 
his country," and hoping one day to lead to battle the able and 
brave men who were at that time under his orders, he took 
"unwearied pains to prepare them for such an event," training 
them to the use of small arms, the exercise of the great guns, 
and every warlike service on ship-board. 

The authority of Commodore Chauxcey, who took charge in 
person of the operations on Lake Ontario, extended to all the 
upper lakes. He received Perry's application with delight, 
and accepted it with alacrity. "You," thus the veteran 
wrote to the impatient young man, "you are the very person 
that I want, for a service in which you may gain a reputation 
for yourself, and honor for your country." "The situation will 
suit you exactly," wrote the friend, who from Washington an- 
nounced to him that he was ordered on duty to Lake Erie ; 
"you may expect warm fighting and a portion of honor." 

His sweet disposition, cheerfulness and modest courage, his 
intuitive good judgment and quickness of will, had endeared 
him to his subordinates ; and one hundred and forty-nine of 
them, officers, men and boys, for the most part, like himself, na- 
tives of Rhode Island, volunteered to go with him, in the dead 
of winter, on the unknown service. 

Receiving his orders on the 17th of February, 1813, on that 
very day he sent forward one-third of the volunteers, under 

105 



106 

sailing-master Almy, as many more on the 19tli, under sailing- 
master Champlin, the rest on the 21st, under sailing-master 
Taylor, and on the 22d, delivering over his command m New- 
port, he began the journey across the country, took with him, 
from his father's house, his brother Alexander, a boy of twelve, 
met Chauncey at Albany, and pursuing his way in part through 
the wilderness, he arrived, on the 3d of March, at Sackett's 
Harbor. The command on Lake Ontario was important, and to 
its chief officer was paramount. In consequence of a prevailing 
rumor of an intended attack by the British, on that station, to 
destroy the squadron, and the vessels on the stocks, Chauncey 
detained Perry, and all his old companions, for a fortnight, and 
one-third of those companions he never let go from his own 
ships on Lake Ontario. 

Not till the 16th of March was Perry permitted to leave 
Sackett's Harbor. On the 24th he reached Buffalo. The next 
day was given to an inspection of the navy-yard at Black Rock. 
On the 26th Perry set out in a sleigh over the frozen lake, and 
on the following afternoon he reached the harbor of Erie. There 
he found that the keels of two brigs had been laid, and three 
gun-boats nearly finished by New York mechanics, under the 
direction of Noah Brown, as master-shipwright ; but no pre- 
cautions for defence had been taken; not a musket was employed 
to guard against a sudden attack of the enemy ; nor had the 
ice been used for the transportation of cannon from Buffalo. 
The supervising power of the young commander was at once 
exerted. Before night he organized a guard out of the villagers 
of Erie, ordered sailing-master Dobbins to repair to Buffalo, to 
bring up forty seamen, muskets, powder, and, if possible, can- 
non ; and wrote to the navy agent at Pittsburgh to hasten the 
movements of a party of shipwrights, on their way from Phila- 
delphia. 

The country expected Perry to change the whole course of 
the war in the West, by obtaining the command of the water, 
which the British as yet possessed without dispute. The want of 
that supremacy had lost Hull and Winchester, and their forces, 
had»Ieft to the British Detroit and Michillimacinac, and the 
North-west, and still impeded all the purposes of Harrison. 
The route from Dayton, in Ohio, to the lake, was so difficult that 
the line of road through the forest and prairies could be traced 
by the wrecks of. wagons, clinging with tenacity to the rich miry 
soil } while the difficulties of transportation by land along the lake 
shore, were insurmountable. Yet, to create a superior naval force 
on Lake Erie, it' was necessary to bring sails, cordage, cannon, 
powder, militai-^ stores, from a distance of five hundred miles, 
through a region of which a considerable part was uninhabited. 

Under the cheering influence of Perry, the work proceeded 



107 

with harmonious diligence. He was the central point of confi- 
dence, for he turned everything to account. The white and 
black oak, and the chestnut of the neighboring woods, often cut 
down on the day on which they were used, furnished the frames 
of the vessels ; the outside planks were of oak alone, the decks 
of pine. To eke out the iron, CA^ery scrap was gathered from 
the village smithies, and welded together. Of blacksmiths, but 
two came from Philadelphia ; others were taken from the mili- 
tia, who were called out as a guard. Tayloe, having, on the 
30th of March, arrived from Sackett"s Harbor, with twenty offi- 
cers and men, Perry left him for a few days in command, and, 
by a hurried visit to Pittsburgh, quickened the movements, on 
which he depended for more artificers, for canvas, muskets, 
small guns, shot and balls. 

On the third of May the gun-boats were launched, and at 
sunset of the twenty-third, the brigs, each of 141 feet in length, 
of five hundred tons burden, pierced for twenty guns, were got 
ready for launching. Just at that moment Peery received in- 
formation that Fort George, the British post at the outlet of the 
Niagara, was to be attacked by the American army, in concert 
with the fleet on Lake Ontario. As soon as night closed in, he 
threw himself into a four-oared open boat ; through darkness, 
and against squalls and head-winds, reached Buffalo the next 
day, and on the evening of twenty -fifth joined Chauncey as a 
volunteer. "No person on earth could at this time be more 
Avelcome," said Chaukcey to the young hero, whose coming was 
unexpected. Peeey was taken to counsel on the best mode of 
landing the troops, and rendered essential aid in their debark- 
ation, winning general applause for his judgment, gallantry and 
alacrity. The official report declares that "he was present at 
every point where he could be useful, under showers of mus- 
ketry." 

He escaped unhurt, and turned the capture of Fort George to 
account for his duty on Lake Erie. The British, being driven 
from both banks of the Niagara, Peeey could remove from 
Black Rock the public vessels which had hitherto been confined 
there by Canadian batteries. Of these the largest was the Cale- 
donia, which Lieutenant Elliott had captured from the British 
in the previous year. The others were three small schooners 
and a sloop, trading vessels, purchased for the government, and 
ntted out as gun-boats by Heney Eckfoed, of New York. 
They were laden with all the naval stores at Black Rock, and 
by the aid of oxen, seamen, a detachment of two hundred sol- 
diers were tracked against the vehement current. 

It took a fortnight of almost incredible fatigue to bring them 
up to Buffalo, where danger began. The little flotilla had al- 
together but eight guns. Finnis, a skillful and experienced 



108 

officer, wlio still commanded the Britisli squadron, was on tlie 
watch, with a force five or six times as great. But Peery, by 
vigilance and promptness, escaped, and in the evening of the 
eighteenth of June, just as the British squadron hove in sight, 
he brought his group of gun-boats into the harbor of Erie. 

The incessant exertion of all his faculties, night watching, 
and unending care, wore upon Perry's frame ; but there could 
be no pause in his efforts, for there Avas no end to his difficulties. 
His example sustained the spirit of the workmen ; one-fifth of 
them were sick, but the work was kept up all day and all night, 
by the rest, who toiled on without a murmur, and not one de- 
serted. The brig over which Perry was to raise his flag, was, 
by the Secretary of the Navy, named Lawrence, in honor of the 
gallant officer who could die in his country's service, but could 
not brook defeat; the other, equal to it in size and strength, was 
called the Niagara. By the tenth of July all the vessels were 
equipped, and could have gone out in a day after the reception 
of their crews ; but there were barely men enough for one of 
the brigs. All recruits were furnished, not directly from Phil- 
adelphia, as a thoughtful secretary would have ordered, but 
with much loss of time, roundabout, by way of Sackett's Har- 
bor, and through Chauncey, who was under a perpetual tempt- 
ation to detain the best on Lake Ontario. 

On the twentieth of July, the British, now commanded by 
the veteran Barclay, rode in triumph off the Bar of Erie. 
Perry bent his eyes longingly on the east ; he watched the 
coming of every mail, of every traveler, as the harbinger of the 
glad tidings that men were on the way. "Give me men," he 
wrote to Chauncey, "and I will acquire honor and glory both 
for you and myself, or perish in the attempt. Think of my sit- 
uation ; the enemy within striking distance, my vessels ready, 
and I obliged to bite my fingers with vexation, for want of men. 
I know you will send them as soon as possible, yet a day ap- 
pears an age." 

On the twenty-third Champlin arrived with a re-inforcement 
of seventy persons, but they were "a motley set of negroes, sol- 
diers and boys." Chauncey repelled all complaints. "I have 
yet to learn," said he, "that the color of the skin can affect a 
man's qualifications or usefulness. I have nearly fifty blacks on 
board of this ship, and many of them are among my best men." 
Meantime Perry declared himself "pleased to see anything in 
the shape of a man." But his numbers were still incomplete. 
"My vessels," he again wrote, "are all ready, our sails are bent, 
Barclay has been bearding me for several days; I long to 
have at him; he shows no disposition to avoid the contest." 

Perry had not in his character one grain of envy. Impa- 
tient as a spirited race-horse, to win the palm in the contest for 



109 

glory, no one paid a heartier or more genial tribute to the merit 
of every other officer, even where, like Moreis, a junior officer 
received promotion over his head. He now invited Chauncey 
himself to come up with sufficient men, beat the British on Lake 
Erie, and return to crush them on Lake Ontario. In his zeal 
for his country and the service, he subdued his own insatiable 
thirst for honor. Meantime he suffered most keenly from his 
compulsatory inactivity ; for letters from the Secretary of the 
ISSbXj required his active co-operation with the army, and when 
he explained to Haeeisox the cause of delay, the Secretary 
chid him for letting his weakness be known. 

The harbor of Erie is a beautiful expanse of water, offering 
shelter to navies of merchantmen, and would be the best on the 
Lake but for its bar. It remained to lift the armed brigs over 
the shallow, and it was to be done as it were in the presence of 
an enemy. Success required secrecy and dis]3atch. 

On the first of August the British squadron disappeared. On 
the instant Perey seized the opjDortunity to affect the dan- 
gerous achievement. Camels had been provided to lift the 
brigs ; the lake was lower than usual, but the weather was still. 
The guns of the Lawrence, all loaded and shotted, were whipped 
out, and landed on the beach, and on the morning of the second 
the camels were applied. 

On the first experiment the timbers yielded a little to the 
strain, and the camels required to be sunk a second time. From 
daylight on the second of August, to the fourth, Peeey, whose 
health had already suffered, was constantly on the alert, without 
sleep or rest ; his example heartened his men. 

Who would com23lain when their commander bore so much ? 
After toiling all day, on the second, all the next night, the next 
day, and again another night, the J^awrence, at daylight, on the 
fourth, was fairly over the bar. On the fifth the JViac/cfra was 
got over at the first attempt. 

"Thank God," wrote Perry, '"'the other sloop-of-war is over ; 
in a few hours I shall be alter the enemv, who is now making 
off" 

111 provided as he was with men and officers, he gave chase 
to the British ; but his daring was vain ; they retreated to Mai- 
den, and he returned to anchor off Erie. 

Till the new ship, which the British were equipping afc Mai- 
den should be ready, Peeey had the superiority, and he used it 
to lade his vessels with military stores for the army near Sandus- 
ky ; but, for a battle on the Lake, he needed officers, as well as 
seamen. 

"I have been on the station,'" he could say, "for five months, 
^tithout an officer of the least experience, except one sailing- 
master." 



110 

Just then a midshipman arrived with a letter that Lieutenant 
Elliott (soon promoted to a commander) was on the way, with 
eighty men and several officers, and a vessel was at once hur- 
ried off to bring them up. But a letter also came to Perey 
from Chauncey, marked in its superscription, and in every line 
by impatience, if not by insult. Peery was justly moved by 
its tone, but, after complaint, remonstrance, and further letters, 
he acted like "an officer whose first duty it is to sacrifice all per- 
sonal feelings to his public duties." 

Elliott, on his arrival, took command of the Niagara, and 
Perey, with a generosity that was natural to him, allowed him 
to select for his own ship the best of the men who came with 
him. 

On the twelfth, Peeey, having traced his plan of battle, in 
case of attack, ranged his squadron in a double column, and 
sailed for the upper end of the Lake. Arriving oft' Cun- 
ningham Island, one of the enemy's schooners appeared in sight, 
was chased, and escaped capture onh' by disappearing at night- 
fall among the islands. 

On the evening of the nineteenth, as the squadron lay off 
Sandusky, General Haerison came on board the Lawrence with 
Cass, MgAethue, Gaines and Ceoghan. At the same time 
came six and twenty chiefs of the Shawnees, Wyandots and 
Delawares, by whose influence it was hoped to detach the In- 
dians of the Northwest from the British service. Between 
Haeeison and Peeey the happiest spirit of concert prevailed. 
The General pointed out to him the excellence of the harbor, 
Put-in-Bay, which became his anchoring ground after he had 
landed the stores for the army, and reconnoitred the British 
squadron at Maiden. 

Chauncey had promised to send fifty marines, but had re- 
called them when on their way to Lake Erie. Haeeison, who 
saw the want unsupplied, and observed how much the little 
squadron had been weakened by sickness, now sent on board 
from his army near one hundred men, all of whom were volun- 
teers. Some of these, having served as boatmen on the Ohio, 
were put on duty as seamen ; the rest chiefly men of Kentucky, 
"who had never before seen a ship, acted as marines. 

Just then Peeey was taken down by a violent attack of lake 
fever, but it was no time to yield to physical weakness ; he gave 
up to the care of himself only the few days necessary to make 
the crews acquainted Avith each other, and to teach the new men 
the use of the guns. 

On the first of September he was able to be on deck, and 
again sailed towards Maiden. Here he found that the British 
had equipped their new ship, which they had proudly named 
Detroit, as a memorial of their conquest ; but, though Perey 



Ill 

defied them, the Britisli, as yet, siiowed no disposition to meet 
Hm, and lie returned to Put-in-Bay, 

But, meantime, the British army, which had been accustomed 
to the abundance and security which the dominion of the water 
had afi"orded, began to suffer from the want of provisions ; and, 
to restore the uninterrupted communication with Long Point, 
General Peoctoe, insisted on the necessity of risking a naval 
engagement, of which the issue was not thought uncertain. Of 
this Peery was seasonably informed. 

On the sixth, he again reconnoitred Maiden, and finding the 
enemy still at his moorings, he returned once more to fill his an- 
chorage, to make his final arrangements for the conflict, which 
was inevitably near at hand. On the evening of the ninth, he 
summoned by signal the commanders of the several vessels, and 
gave them their instructions in writing. It was his policy to fight 
the enemy at close Cjuarters ; to each vessel its antagonist on the 
British side, was marked out ; to the Lawrence, the Detroit ; to 
the Niagara, the Queen Charlotte; and the written order said : 
"Engage each your designated adversary in close action, at half 
cable-length." He also showed them a flag of blae bunting, on 
which were painted in white letters the last words of Laweexce, 
''Dorit give up the ship." It was a bright Autumn night; the 
moon was at the full ; as they parted, each to return to his ves- 
sel, the last injunction of their young commander was given, in 
the words of Kelson: ''If you lay your enemy close alongside, 
you cannot be out of your place." 

At sunrise, on the tenth, the British squadron was discovered 
from the masthead of the Laicrence, gallantly bearing down for 
action. To Peeey, all languishing as he was fi'om the wasting 
attack of a severe bilious fever, the news was as welcome as the 
bidding to the most important duty of his life. His anchors were 
soon lifted, and his squadron began beating out of the bay, 
against a gentle breeze from the south-west. Three or four 
hours passed away in this contest with an adverse wind, when 
he resolved to wear ship, and run to leeward of the island. 
"You will engage the enemv from to leeward," said the sailing- 
master, Tayloe. "To windward or to leeward," answered Peeey', 
'•they shall fight to-day." But nature, on that occasion, came 
into an alliance with his hopeful courage, and the wind shifted 
to the south-east. A slight shower had fallen in the morning, 
the sky became clear. The day on which Peeey, forming his 
line, slowly bore up towards the enemy, then nearly three 
leagues oft', was one of the loveliest of the beautiful days of 
autumn. 

At first the Niagara had led the van. "^'hen T^ithin about a 
league of the British, Perry saw that Barclay, with whose ves- 
sel he was to engage, occupied the head of the British line, and 



112 

lie promptly altered the disposition of Ms vessels, to conform to 
it. Elliott had no cause to be piqued at the change, which 
was required by the plan that had been uniformly proposed ; it 
was in itself most fit, and was made promptly, and without con- 
fusion. 

The British squadron had hove-to, in close order, the ships' 
heads to the southward and westward, and waiting to be attack- 
ed, the sides of the vessels, newly painted, glittering in the 
sun, and their gay colors flying in the breeze. The Detroit, a 
new brig of nineteen or twenty guns, commanded by Barclay, 
an experienced officer, who had fought with Nelsoit, at Trafal- 
gar, was in the van, supported by the Chippewa, a gun-boat, 
with one long eighteen, on a pivot, j^ext rode the Hunter, of 
ten guns ; the Queen Charlotte, of seventeen guns, commanded 
by Fixxis, a gallant and tried officer, who had commanded the 
squadron till Baeclay's arrival was the fourth, and was flanked, 
by the Lady Prevost, which carried thirteen guns, and the Lit- 
tle Belt, which had three. On the American side. Perry, in 
the Lawrence, of twenty guns, flanked on his left by the Scoo'- 
pion, under Champlin, with one long, and one short gun, and 
the Ariel, under Lieutenant Almy, with four short twelves, and 
sustained on his right by Turner, in the Caledonia, with three 
long twenty-fours, were to support each other, and cope with the 
Chippewa, the Detroit, and the Hunter; while Elliott, in the 
Niagara, a noble vessel, of twenty guns, which was to encoun- 
ter the Queen Charlotte, came next ; and with Almy in the 
Somers, with two long thirty-twos ; the Porcupine, with one long 
thirty-two ; the Tigress, with one long twenty-fdur, and the 
Irippe, with one long thirty-two, was to engage the Lady Pre- 
vost and the Ljittle Belt. The American gun-boat Ohio was ab- 
sent on special service. 

In ships the British had the superiority, their vessels being 
stronger, and their forces being more concentrated ; the Amer- 
ican gun-boats at the right of the American line, separated from 
each other by at least a half cable's length, were not near 
enough for good service. In number of guns the British had 
63, the American's 54. In action at a distance, the British, who 
had 35 long guns to 15, had greatly the advantage, in close ac- 
tion the weight of metal would favor the Americans. The 
British commander had one hundred and fifty men from the 
royal navy, eighty Canadian sailors, and two hundred and forty 
soldiers, mostly regulars, and some Indians, making, with their 
officers, a little more than five hundred men, of whom at least 
four hundred and fifty were efficient. The American crews, of 
whom about one-fourth were from Rhode Island, one fourth reg- 
ular seamen, American or cosmopolitan, about one fourth raw 
volunteers from Pennsylvania, Ohio, but chiefly Kentucky, and 



113 

about one-fourth blacks, numbered on the muster-roll four hund- 
red and ninety, but of these one hundred and sixteen were sick, 
nearly all of whom were too weak to come on deck, so that the 
efficient force of the squadron was a little less than four hundred. 

While the Americans, having the weather-guage, bore up for 
action. Perry unfolded to the crew of the Lawrence the motto 
flag ; it was received with hearty cheers, and run up to the top 
of the fore-royal, in sight of all the squadron. The decks 
were wetted and strown with sand, to insure a firm foothold when 
blood should begin to flow ; and refreshments were hastily 
served. For an hour the stillness of expectation continued un- 
broken, till a bugle was heard to sound on board the Detroit, 
followed by loud and concerted cheers from all the British line, 
and Barclay began the conflict, in which the defeat of the 
Americans would yield to the British the superiority in arms on 
the land, bare the shores of Ohio to ruthless havoc and ravage, 
leave Detroit and the Far West in the poAver of the English 
king, let loose the savage with his tomahawk onevery family of 
emigrants along the border, and dishonor the star-spangled ban- 
ner on the continent and on the lakes. 

At fifteen minutes before twelve, Barclay began the action 
by firing a single t,wenty-four pound shot at the Lawrence, which 
had then approached within a mile and a half, or less, of the 
British line. The shot did not take effect; but it was clear that 
he desired to conduct the fight with the American squadron at a 
distance, which his very great superiority in long guns marked 
out as his wisest plan. It was, on the other hand, the object of 
Perry to bring his squadron as near to his antagonist as possible, 
for he had the advantage in weight of metal. In five minutes 
more the shot from the Detroit struck the Lawrence, and passed 
through her bulwarks. 

At that moment the advantage lay altogether with the, 
British, whose line headed nearly south-south-west ; the Ameri- 
cans, as they advanced, headed about south-west, with the wind 
abeam ; so that the two lines formed an acute angle of about 
fifteen degrees ; the Lawrence as yet scarcely reached beyond 
the third vessel in the British line, so that she was almost as 
much in the rear of the Detroit as in advance of the Queen Char- 
lotte. The Caledonia was in its-designated place in the American 
line, at a half-cable's length from the Lawrence : and from the 
angle which the line formed, a little less near the enemy. The 
Niagara, which followed the Caledonia, was abaft the beam of 
the Charlotte, and opposite the Lady Prevost, but at a slightly 
greater distance from the British than the ships which preceded 
her. As for the gun-boats, they would have spread beyond the 
British lines by more than a quarter of a mile, had they been in 
their places, each distant from the other a half-cable's length ; 
8 



114 

but they were dull sailers, and the sternmost was more than two 
miles distant from the enemy, and more than a mile behind the 
Lawrence. 

At five minutes before twelve, the Laivrence, which was 
already suffering, began to return the British attack from her 
long twelve-pounder ; the two schooners on her weather-bow, 
the Scorpion under Champlin, the Ariel under Lieutenant Pack- 
et, were ordered by trumpet to open their fire ; and the action 
became general along the two lines. The two schooners bravely 
kept their place all the day, and gallantly and steadily rendered 
every aid, which their few guns and weight of armament allowed. 
The Caledonia was able to engage at once and effectively, for 
she carried two long twenty-fours ; but the caronades of the 
Niagara fell short of their mark. Elliott therefore at first used 
only one long twelve-pounder, which was on the side toward the 
enemy ; but he soon moved another where it could be servicea- 
ble ; so that while his ship carried twenty guns, he discharged 
but two ; which, however, were plied so vigorously, that in the 
course of two hours or more, nearly all the shot of that calibre 
was expended. The sternmost gunboats could as yet take no 
part in the fight. 

It was under these circumstances that Perry formed the 
desperate but necessary resolution of taking the utmost advan- 
tage of the superior speed of the Lawrence, and leaving the 
Caledonia, he advanced upon the enemy ; so that however great 
might have been the zeal of every ofiicer in the other ships of 
his squadron, he must necessarily have remained for a short time 
exposed alone. The breeze was light ; his motion was slow ; 
and as he fanned down with the flagging wind, the Detroit with 
her long guns, planted her shot in the Lawrence deliberately 
and at discretion. The Scorpion and Ariel, all exposed as they 
were for the want of bulwarks, accompanied by the flag-ship, 
but suffered little, for they were neglected by the enemy, who 
concentrated his fire on the Lawrence. 

At noon, Perry luffed up and tried the effect of the first 
division of his battery on the starboard side ; but it did not 
much injure his antagonist; he therefore bore away again, and 
approached nearer and still nearer, and after firing a broadside 
at a quarter past twelve, once more continued his onward course, 
till he arrived " within canister shot distance," or within five 
hundred yards, or a little less, when he took a position parallel 
to the Detroit; and, notwithstanding what he had suffered from 
loss of men and injury to his rigging, he poured in upon her a 
swift, continuous, and effective fire. Here the good effect of his 
discipline was apparent ; his men showed how well they had 
been trained to the guns, which were rapidly and skillfully 
served. In the beginning of the conflict, the Niagara came in 



115 

for a share of tlie attention of the enemy ; whose shot very early 
took effect upon her and carried away one of her fore-top-mast- 
back-stays. But at half-past twelve, Finnis who commanded 
the Queen Charlotte, perceived that the Niagara, which was 
apparently destined for his antagonist, '* kept so far to windward 
as to render his twenty-four-pounder carronades useless," " made 
sail for the purpose of assisting the Detroit ; so that Perey, in 
the Lawrence, aided only by the schooners on his weather-bow, 
and the distant shots of the Caledonia, had to contend in close 
action with more than twice his force. 

The carnage v^^as terrible; yet the commodore, as his men 
loved to call their young commander, was on that day nerved by 
a superior spirit ; wrought up to the highest state of mental 
activity, he was superior to every infirmity of mind or body, of 
passion or will ; he knew not that he was still languishing under 
the effects of a violent fever, he was unmoved in the presence of 
danger, and amidst the scenes of agony and death, he maintained 
a perfect cheerfulness of manner and serenity of judgment. His 
young brother, a boy of thirteen, was struck down at his side, 
but he was spared the trial of seeing him die ; the blow came 
only from fragments, which had been dashed in pieces by a ball ; 
and he soon recovered. Yarnall, his first lieutenant, came to 
him with the report that all the ofiicers in his division were cut 
down ; and asked for others. They were assigned him ; but he 
soon returned with a renewal of the same tale and the same 
request. '' I have no more officers to furnish you," said Perry ; 
'' you must endeavor to make out by yourself." And Yarn all 
was true to the admonition ; though at least thrice wounded, he 
kept on deck, ever directing his battery in person. Forest, the 
second lieutenant, was struck down at Perry's side, by a grape 
shot ; but the ball had spent its force ; he was only stunned, and 
soon recovered. The dying, with whom the deck was strewn, 
rested their last looks upon the countenance of their beloved 
commander ; and when men at the guns were swept away, the 
survivors turned silently round to catch his eye, as they stepped 
into the places of their companions who had fallen. Brooks of 
Massachusetts, — son of a soldier of the Revolution, who is still 
remembered as an upright and popular Governor of that State, 
— and excellent officer of marines, a man of rare endowments 
and of singular personal beauty, was fearfully mangled by a 
cannon ball in the hip. Carried down to the surgeon's apart- 
ment, he asked no aid, for he knew his doom, and that he had 
life in him for only one or two half hours ; but as he gave him- 
self over to death, he often inquired how the day was going ; and 
when the crowd of new-comers from the deck showed how deadly 
was the contest, he ever repeated his hope for the safety of the 
commodore. 



116 

In tlie midst of this terrible slaughter, concentred in a single 
brig, both officers and crew looked along their line for help, and 
asked one another, Where is the Niagara ? She was to have 
engaged the Queen Charlotte; why is she not at hand ? Elliott 
knew full well that it had been Pkrry's " intention to bring 
the enemy to close action immediately," and, before the fighting 
began, had "mentioned it to his crew," in language suited to 
inspire them with confidence. He knew full well that he was 
specially directed to attack the Queen Charlotte^ and from the 
superiority of his armament, he had bos^ted that if he could 
come along side of her, he could take her in ten minutes. The 
wind, it is true, was light ; but no want of a wind compelled him 
to leave the Ixiwrence to be^r " a great proportion " or the whole 
*' of the fire of the Queen Charloite and of the Hunter, as well as 
of the Deirmt;' his ship was a fleet one; to restrain her from 
passing the Caledonio., "he was obliged frequently to keep the 
main yard braced sharp aback." Elliott was a young man, 
born the self-same year with Peeey, his peer in rank as master- 
commandant, except that Perry, from having entered the 
navy in boyhood, was some years his senior in the service. • How 
could he suffer the enemy, undistm-bed, to fall in numbers on 
one whom he should have loved as a brother, whose clanger he 
should have shared, in the brightness of whose glory he should 
have fotmd new Ki&tre added to his own name ? Some attributed 
his delay to fear ; but though he had so far one attribute to a 
timid man, that he was a noisy boaster, his conduct during the 
day, in the judgment of disinterested obse-rvers and critics^ 
acquits him of having been spell-bound by downright cowardice. 
Some charged, him with disaffection to his country, fi^om sympa- 
thy with family connections in Canada ; but this is an imputation 
justified, by no conctUTent circumstances, or acts of his earlier or 
latter life. Some thought him blinded by envy, which sews up 
the eyes with an iroa threa,d, and leaves the mind to hover od 
an undiscerniDg wing. He may, perhaps, have been disturbed 
by that unhappy passion, for a yeaa- before he had himself con- 
spicuously won applause near Buffalo, and had then promised 
himself the command on Lake Eiie, to be followed by a victory 
achieved luader his own flag;, that very morning, too, his first 
position had been, as we have seen, in the van ; but it had been 
very properly changed for the purpose of p],acing him opposite 
to the Queen Charlotte. Elliott had inherent defects of charac- 
ter. He wanted the generous impulse which delights in the 
fame of otheis ; the delicacy of sentiment which re;i.ects from afar 
everything coarse or mean ; the alertness of com^age which finds 
in danger an allurement; the quick perception that sees the 
time to strike ; the self-possessed will, which is sure to hit the 
nail on the head. According to his own account, he at first 



117 

determiiied to ram tkrongli tlie line in pursuit of tte Queen 
Charlotte; and, having a fair and sufficient breeze, lie directed 
tlie weatlier braces to be manned for that purpose ; but he 
changed his purpose, when he observed that the Lawrefwe was 
crippled, and that her fire was slackening ; and after a consulta- 
tion with the purser Mageath, 'whiQ was an experienced seaman, 
lie agreed, ■" If the British effect the weather guage, we are gone." 
So he kept his place next in the line to the Caledonm, which 
lingered behind, because she was a dull sailer, and, in the light 
wind, was moreover retarded in her movements by the ^eal of 
TuENEB, her commander, to render service by his armament, 
which enabled him to keep up an effective fire from the distance. 

It was a part of Elliott's orders to clo^ with the Queen 
Charhtte^ but he held it to be his paramount duty to keep his 
place, a half-cable's length behind the Caledofiia on the line as 
designated in the original order of battle, even though the flag- 
ship of the s(|uaxiroa might be cot to pieces. 

So Peeey lay exposed to thrice his force, at the distance of 
fifteen hundred or a thousand feet, aided only by the two schooners 
on his beam, and the constant help of the Caledonia^ Under the 
iieavy fire the men on deck became fewer ; but Peeey continued 
the action with unabated serenity, Parsom's, the surgeon's mate, 
and the only man in the fleet who was then able to render 
surgical aid, heard a cail for him at the small skylight, that let in 
the day upon his apartment ; and as he stepped up he recognized 
the voice of his commander, who said, with a placid countenance 
and quiet tone : '' Dootor, send me oae of your men ;" meaning 
one of the six men allowed for assistance to the wounded. The 
call was obeyed ; in a few minutes it was successively renewed 
and obeyed, till at the seventh call, Passoists could only answer 
that there Avere no more, '' Are there any that can pull a rope ?" 
asked Peeey; and two or three of the wounded crav/led on 
deck, to lend a feeble hand at pulling at the last guns. 
Wilson Mays, who wasso sick as to be unfit for the deck, begged 
to be of use. ''But what can you do ?" was the question. And 
he replied : " I can sound the pump, and let a strong man go to 
the guns," He accordingly sat down by the pump, and at the 
end of the fight was found at his post, " with a ball through his 
heart." The surgeon's apartment could offer no security to the 
wounded. In the shallow vessel it was necessarily on a level 
with the water, and was repeatedly perforated by cannon balls. 
Once as the surgeon stooped t» dress a wound, a ball passed 
directly over his head, and must have destroyed him, had he not 
been bending down. A wounded midshipman, just as he left 
the surgeon's hands, was dashed against the ship's side by a 
cannon ball. On deck, the bullwarks were broken in, and round 
balls passed through the little obstructions ; but as long as he 



118 

could, Perry kept np a regular and effective fire, so that tlie 
Detroit, of whose crew many were killed or wounded, was almost 
dismantled. On board the Queen Charlotte, the loss was most 
important, for Finnis, her commander, " a noble and intrepid 
officer," fell at his post, and Lieutenant Stokes, the next officer 
in rank, was struck senseless by a splinter. On board the Lavj- 
rcnce the shrieks of the wounded and the crash of timbers 
shattered by cannon balls, were still heard ; but its own fire grew 
fainter and fainter ; one gun after another was dismounted. 
Death had the mastery : the carnage was unparalleled in naval 
warfare ; more than four-fifths of the effective officers and men 
on board were killed or disabled by wounds ; the deck, in spite 
of the layer of sand, was slippery with blood, which ran down 
the sides of the ship ; the wounded and the dead lay thickly 
strewn everywhere around. To fire the last gun. Perry himself 
assisted. At l^st every gun in the ship's battery on the enemy's 
side were dismounted, every brace and bow-line was shot away ; 
the vessel became unmanageable, in spite of the zeal of the com- 
mander and the great exertions of the Sailing Master. And 
still Perry did not despair, but had an eye which could look 
through the cloud. 

Meantime Elliott watched the last spasms of the Lawrence 
as it lay gasping in its ruin ; and now that its fire was dying 
away, that no fresh signal was hoisted, that no special message 
was sent from Perry, he persuaded himself that his young 
superior lay among the slain. 

Believing himself now the chief commander of the squadron, 
Elliott hailed the Caledonia, and ordered Lieutenant Turner 
to bear up and make way for him. Turner at once, without a 
word, "out up his helm in the most daring manner, and made 
sail for the enemy's line, using his small armament all the while 
to the best advantage ; while Elliott, under a freshening breeze, 
passed to the windward of the Caledonia. The Lo.wrence lay 
disabled and silent ; by all the rules of naval warfare, he should 
have given her protection by sailing between her and the British \ 
but instead of it, he kept to the windward, sheltered by the 
helpless flag-ship, to which he sent Macgrath in a boat with a 
few brace men for twelve-pound round shot, to replenish his own 
nearly exhausted stock ; and, then firing as he went along, on 
the Charlotte, he steered for the head of the British line. Perry, 
who saw with the swiftness of intuition the new method that 
must be chosen now that the first failed, and who had already 
resolved to transfer his flag, with the certainty that, in the 
crippled state of the British, " victory must perch on his banner," 
immediately entered his boat with his commander's pennant and 
his little brother, and bade the four sailors whom he took as 
oarsman to row with all speed for the Niagara. The command 



119 

of tlie Lmorence fell to Yaexall, with full discretionary power 
to surrender or hold out ; but lie had an admonition from above 
in the motto flag which the departing hero left flying at the 
mast-head, and which spoke the trumpet words: Don't give up 
THE SHIP, The flag had been raised amidst the shouts of the 
whole squadron and the promise of the crew of the Lawrence to 
redeem that pledge. Yaexall consulted with Forest and with 
Taylob, ; there were no more guns that could be used ; and had 
there been, men were wanting to handle them. Fourteen 
persons alone were left well and unhurt, and only nine were 
seamen. Further resistance was imposible ; to hold out might 
only expose life recklessly. Officers and men watched anxiously 
the progress of Perry ; they saw the sailors force him to sit 
down ; they saw a broadside aimed at him, and fall harmlessly 
around him ; they saw marines from three vessels shower at him 
musket balls, which only ruffled the water of the lake ; and at 
fifteen minutes before three, they saw the oars dipping for the 
last time, and their beloved commander climb the side of the 
Niagara. They had braved the enemy's fire for three hours ; 
could not they confide in help from their commodore and hold 
out five minutss more ? True, they had no means of ofi"ence ; but 
the battle flag with its ringing words floated over their heads ; 
they had a pledge to keep ; they had an enemy whose dying 
courage they should refuse to reanimate ; they had their coun- 
try's flag to preserve unblemished ; they had the honor of 
that day's martyrs to guard ; they had a chief to whom they 
should have spared an unspeakable pain ; they had the wounded 
to consider, who with one voice cried out : " Rather sink the 
ship than surrender I Let us all sink together !" And yet a shout 
of triumph from the enemy proclaimed to both squadrons, that 
the flag of the Lawrence had been lowered ; nor did they then 
forbode how soon it was to be raised again. 

Meantime Perry climbed the gangway of the Niagara, and 
the superior officer, whom Elliott had thought to be dead, 
stood before him, radiant with the indomitable purpose of 
winning the day ; with his fortitude impaired by the crowded 
horrors of the last two hours ; black with the smoke of the battle, 
but unscathed, with not so much as a wound on his skin ; with 
not a hair of his head harmed. His quick eye glanced at the 
ship's rigging, at her hale crew that thronged the deck, and his 
buoyant nature promised him a harvest of glory as he beheld 
the Niagara, "very little injured," even "perfectly fresh," its 
crew in the best condition, with scarcely more than three men 
hurt. Elliott's mind was stunned ; and completely dum- 
founded he asked the foolish question : "What is the result on 
board your brig ?" though he had seen that the brig was a disa- 
bled wreck, and had even thought that Perry had fallen. " Cut 



120 

all to pieces!" said Perry whose mind had instantlv condeniDed 
the course in which Elliott was steering, and was forming his 
plan for redeeming the day. " I have been sacrificed," he added; 
but he checked all reproach of Elliott, and blamed only the 
gunboats, which had been still farther astern. It marks how ill 
Elliott was at ease, how much he was struck with shame, how 
entirely he lost his self-possession, that he caught at the word 
which seemed to relieve him from censure, and at once offered 
to go and bring up the gunboats. "Do&o," said Perry, for 
Elliott had anticipated his wish, and proposed what was best 
for both. At this, Elliott, the second officer of the squadron, 
whose right it would be to take the chief command if Perry 
should be wounded, left his own brig, and went in a boat on the 
paltry errand, fit only for a subordinate, to bear a superfluous 
message to the gunboats, which, under their gallant officers, were 
already advancing as fast as possible. 

As he stepped into the boat. Perry, running up his pennant, 
and hoisting the signal for close action, which was instantly 
answered from all the squadron with loud cheers, hove too, and 
veered ship, altering her course eight points, set foresail, topsails 
and top-gallant sail, and bore down to cut the British line, which 
lay at the distance of a half mile. 

The Lady Frevost, disabled by the loss of her rudder, had 
drifted to the westward and leeward from her place in the line ; 
Barclay in the Detroit, when he saw the prospect of a contest 
with a second brig, had attempted to veer around, that he might 
bring his starboard broadside to bear ; but in doing it he had 
fallen upon the Queen Charlotte. At this moment Perry, whom 
seven, eight or ten minutes in the freshened breeze had brought 
up with the British, disregarding their fire, cut their line, placing 
the Chippewa and Lady Prevost on his left, the Detroit and Queen 
Charlotte on his right : and as he did so, he shortened sail to 
make sure of his aim, and cooly and with fatal accuracy, at half 
pistol shot, he raked the Lady Prevost with his broadside port, 
while he poured his full starboard broadside on the Detroit and 
Queen Charlotte as they lay entangled and for the moment help- 
lessly exposed. The loud many-voiced shriek that rose from the 
Detroit told that the tide of battle had turned ; but what was 
worst for the British was, that their gallant commander, the 
the skillful and intrepid but ill-fated Barclay, who had lost an 
arm at Trafalgar, received a desperate wound which was to deprive 
him of the other. The wound was so severe that he was obliged 
to be carried below, leaving the direction to an officer of little 
experience. 

Perry now ordered the marines to clear the decks of the 
Lady Prevost; but the survivors, terrified by the raking fire 
which they had suffered, fled below, leaving on deck no one but 



121 

their cominander, Tvho, haTing for the moment lost his senses 
from a severe wound in the head, remained at his post, gazing 
about with a vacant stare. PeePwY, merciful even in battle, 
stopped his guns on that side, but having luffed athwart the 
two ships, which had now got clear of one another, he continued 
to pour into them a close deadly fire. Meantime Elliott, 
heedless of exposure to danger, had passed in an open boat down 
the line, and repeated to the schooners the orders which Pehey 
had sufficiently announced by signal. 1 heir commanders them- 
selves, with sails up and the use of large oars, hastened into close 
fight. The Tripjje, under HoLDrp Stevexs, was following hard 
upo'i the Caledonia : so that Elliott got on board the Somers, 
a schooner of two guns, where he showed his rankling discontent 
and unsettled frame of mind by s^^nding the commanding officer 
below, and beating with his trumpet a gunner who disregarded 
an absurd older, and did just what was evidently most proper to 
be done. 

The small vessels having by this time ''got within grape and 
canister distance," threw in close discharges from their side. 
The commanding officer of the Queen Charlotte, finding himself 
exposed to be raked ahead and astern, was the first to give up ; 
one of her officers appeared on the taffrail of that ship, and 
waved. a white handkerchief, bent to a boarding-pike, in token 
that she had struck. The Detroit had become completely 
unmanageable ; every brace was cut away, the mizzen-top-mast 
and gaff' were down, the other masts badly wounded, not a stay 
left forward, the hull very much shattered, and a few guns dis- 
abled ; at three, or a few minutes after, Lieutenant Izis'GLIS was 
therefore under the necessity of hailing the Americans, to say he 
surrendered. The Hunter yielded at the same time, as did the 
Lady Prevost, which lay to leeward under the guns of the Niag- 
ara.. The Cidppeiua., on the right of the British line, and the 
Little Belt, on the extreme left, endeavored to escape ; but the 
first was stopped by Champlix, in the Scorpion; the the other 
by Holdup Stevexs, in the Trippe. 

As the cannon ceased, an awfud stillness set in : the feeble 
groans of the wounded, or the dash of oars as boats glided from 
one vessel to another. 

Possession having been taken of the conquered fieet, at four 
o'clock PeePcY sent an express to Haeeisox with these words : 

" Dear Gexeeal — "VTe have met the enemy, and they are ours ; two 
ships, two brigs, one schooner and one sloop/' 

As he wrote to the Secretary of the Xavy, a religious awe 
seemed to come over him, at his wonderful preservation in the 
midst of great and long-continued danger ; and he attributed 
his signal victory to the pleasure of the Almighty. 



122 

It was on board the Lawrence that Perry then received the 
submission of the captives. This was due to the sufierings of 
her crew, to the self sacrificing courage of the unnamed mnrtyrs 
who still lay unburied on her deck ; to the crowd of wounded, 
who thought their trials well rewarded by the issue. The wit- 
nesses to the act of the British officers in tendering their swords 
were chiefly the dead and wounded, and the scene of sorrow 
tempered and subdued the exultation of triumph. 

The conqueror bade his captix'es retain their side-arms ; and 
added every just and unaff'ected expression of courtesy, mercy, 
and solicitude for their wounded. 

When twilight fell, the mariners who had fallen on board the 
Lawrence and had lain in heaps on the side of the ship opposite 
the British, were sewn up in their hammocks, and, with a cannon 
ball at their feet, were dropped one by one into the Lake. 

At last, but not till this day's Avork was done, exhausted 
nature claimed rest, and Perry, turning into his cot, slept as 
sweetly and quietly as a child. 

The dawn of morning revealed the deadly fierceness of the 
combat. Spectators from the island found the sides of the Law- 
rence completely riddled by shot from the long guns of the 
British ; her deck was thickly covered with clots of blood ; 
fragments of those who had been struck, hair, brains, broken 
pieces of bones, were still sticking to the rigging and sides. The 
sides of the Detroit and Queen Charlotte were shattered from 
bow to stern ; on their larboard side there was hardly a hand's 
breadth free from the dent of a shot. Balls, cannister and grape 
were found lodged in their bulwarks ; their masts were so much 
injured, that they rolled out in the first high wind. 

The loss of the British, as reported by Barclay, amounted to 
forty-one killed, of whom three were ofiicers, and ninety-four 
wounded, of whom nine were ofiicers. Of the Americans, twenty- 
seven we killed and ninety-six wounded. Of these, twenty-one 
were killed and sixty-one wounded in the Lawrence, and about 
twenty more were wounded in the Niagara after she received 
Perry on board. 

An opening on the margin of Put-in-Bay was selected for the 
burial-place for the ofiicers who had fallen. The day was serene, 
the breezes hushed, the water unruffled by a wavelet. The men 
of both fleets mourned together ; as the boats moved slowly in 
procession, the music played dirges to which the oars kept time; 
the fl'ags showed the sign of sorrow ; solemn minute guns were 
heard from the ships. The sjoot where the funeral train went on 
shore was a wild solitude ; the Americans and British walked in 
alternate couples to the graves, like men who, in the presence of 
eternity, renewed the relation of brothers and members of one 
human family, and the bodies of the dead were likewise borne 



123 

along and buried alternately, English and American side by 
side, and undistinguished. 

The wounded of both fleets, meeting with equal assiduous care, 
were sent to Erie, where Barclay was seen, with tottering 
steps, supported between Harrison and Perry, as he walked 
from the landing-place to his quarters. 

Perry crowned his victory by his modesty, forbearing to 
place his own services in their full light, and more than just to 
others. When, in the following year, he was rewarded by pro- 
motion to the rank of captain, he who had never murmured at 
promotion made over his own head, hesitated about accept- 
ing a preferment which might wound his seniors. 

The personal conduct of Perry throughout the tenth of 
September was perfect. His keenly sensitive nature never 
interfered with his sweetness of manner, his fortitude, the sound- 
ness of his judgment, the promptitude of his decision. In a state 
of impassioned activity, his j)lans were wisely framed, were 
instantly modified as circumstances changed, and were executed 
with entire coolness and self-possession. The mastery of the 
lakes, the recovery of Detroit and the far west, the capture of 
the British army in the peninsula of Upper Canada, were the 
immediate fruits of his success. The imagination of the American 
people was taken captive by the singular incidents of a battle in 
which every thing seemed to have flowed from the personal 
prowess of one man ; and wherever he came the multitude went 
out to bid him welcome. AVashington Irving, the chosen 
organ as it were of his country, predicted his ever increasing 
fame. Ehode Island cherishes his glory as her own ; Erie keeps 
the tradition that its harbor was his ship-yard, its forests the 
storehouse for the frames of his chief vessels, its houses the 
hospitable shelter of the wounded among his crews ; Cleveland 
graces her public square with a statue of the hero, wrought of 
purest marble, and looking out upon the scene of his glory ; the 
tale follows the emigrant all the way up the Straits, and to the 
head of Lake Superior. Perry's career was short and troubled ; 
he lives in the memory of his countrymen, clothed in perpetual 
youth, just as he stood when he saw that his eff'orts were crowned 
with success, and could say in his heart, " We have met the 
the enemy and they are ours." 



THE BATTLE OF LAKE ERIE. 



BY HAKYEY RICE. 



Hovering o'er Erie's waters blue, 

War-ships equipped are seen, 
Bearing a bold and hostile crew, 

Led by the Charlotte Queen ; 
With ready guns and courage true, 

On pride of power they lean ! 

With stately pomp and snowy wing. 

And pennons fluttering gay, 
In battle line, they seem to fling 

Defiance on their way ; 
For dream of woes an hour may bring 

AVhen comes the fearful fray ! 

Lo ! Perry now that fleet descries, 

And, like a tempest dire, 
'Neath stars and stripes, and favoring skies, 

Assails with sheeted fire 
The haughty foe, who dared despise 

The Yankees — and their ire. 

And now, as maddening volleys rave, 
Through Perry's Flag-ship reels, 

'Neath fire and smoke, with hand to save. 
From ship to ship he steals ; 

And now the fate of Britons brave 
With one broadside he seals ! — 

And now their decks are crimsoned o'er. 

Swept by that iron hail ; 
And as the last gun boomed the shore, 

'Mid shouts and saddening wail, 
Glad news to anxious hearts it bore, 

Afar on every gale ! 

Honor to him who fought to break 

The grasp of sceptered pride ; 
The Hero, whose brave deeds awake, 

Within the heart's glad tide, 
Proud memories, now with Erie's Lake, 

And Perry's name allied ! 



124 



WILLIAM WALCUTT 

THE SCULPTOR OF THE PEBRY STATUE. 



The subject of this sketch viaa born at Columbus, Ohio, April 
28th, 1819. He is one of the few, who was born an Artist. At 
four years of age, he began to exhibit a love of art, and amused 
himself in rude attempts at drawing with chalk or charcoal, 
pictures of animals and other objects. His mother had no 
difficulty in tracing his wandering footsteps when a child, by 
the outlines of animals staring at her from the board fences. 

His early education was by no means neglected. He studied 
surveying and engineering under a private tutor, and spent 
several years in pursuing a regular course of studies at Gran- 
ville College. Impatient of restraint, he began his career as 
a painter of portraits at the age of sixteen, but as yet was 
only self-taught in the art. He was eighteen before he ever 
saw a statue of any kind ; and the first specimen which he saw, 
was a small figure of Napoleon in plaster, exhibited at a shop 
window, which attracted his attention in passing along a street 
of his native town. He stopped and gazed at it with a feeling 
of indescribable delight. The deep impression its beauty and 
heroic expression made upon his mind, at once determined his 
future studies. But his father had marked out for him a difler- 
ent course, and secured for him a warrant to enter the military 
school at West Point as a Cadet. Young "Walcutt was not 
inclined to accept the position, and much preferred to go to 
Isew York and perfect himself in his favorite studies. The 
father reluctantly yielded to the solicitations of his son — accom- 
panied him to New York — gave him fifty dollars — and bestowed 
on him at parting, a father's blessing ; still believing that his 
son would soon relinquish his project and return home. 

125 



126 

Soon after his arrival in New York, tlie young enthusiast 
entered the "Antique School," so called, being then in his 
eighteenth year, and here pursued his artistic studies as a pupil, 
for nearly four years, often so straitened for the means of sup- 
port as to suffer for want of the common comforts of life. 
Subsequently he returned to Ohio, where he remained for the 
next five years, and during that time added much to his former 
reputation as a portrait painter ; though not a department of 
art in which he sought the highest degree of excellence. He 
then visited Washington, where he sojourned a short time, but 
still preferring New York as affording a wider field for the 
exercise of his talents, he returned to that city, with a view 
to make it his future home, where he soon became known as an 
Artist of decided merit. In 1852, he visited London, studied 
art for sometime in that city, and then went to Paris, where he 
remained for two years pursuing his favorite studies in the 
celebrated "Life School," of Mr. Yvon, and in the "Imperial 
School of Sculpture," established by the French Government. 
In this latter Institution, such was the success of Mr. Walcutt 
as a pupil, that at the close of his course, in competing for the 
prize, he bore off the palm, and received the "Imperial medal," 
as a testimonial of his superior attainments. In 1855, he 
returned home to New York, and soon won a "second prize" in 
the person of Miss Agnes M. Leeds, of N. Y., whom he married. 

Since Mr. Walcutt's return from Europe, he has executed a 
good number of busts in marble, of prominent individuals, with 
remarkable success. In 1859, he visited his parents at Colum- 
bus, and made arrangements to return to Europe. But on 
receiving a proposition to execute the statue of Oliver Hazard 
Perry — the Hero of Lake Erie — from one of the most reliable 
and public spirited firms in the west, Messrs. T. Jones & Sons, 
of Cleveland, who had taken the contract to erect the Perry 
Monument at Cleveland, he deferred his return to Europe, and 
at once accepted the proposition, for he regarded the character 
of Perry as affording him a subject happily adapted to his taste, 
and one on which he would like to try his skill. Induced by a 
love of art rather than any pecuniary considerations, he under- 
took the task with a determination to produce a statue worthy 
of the Hero, and one which should be not only life-like, but 



127 

accord in its expression, with, the requirements of American 
sentiment and feeling. And witli a view to effect this object, 
he discarded all the conventionalities of sculpture, and relied 
on the promptings of his own genius. The result is, lie has 
produced a master-piece, a specimen of American sculpture, 
original in its character, and spirited in its expression— an 
American Hero, who is made to breathe, speak, and act, in 
marble. In the opinion of the most competent critics, the Perry 
Statue is a work of art which has never been excelled in the 
United States, and one which justly entitles Mr. Walcutt to 
take rank with the eminent sculptors of modern times. 

In addition to the Perry Statue, Mr. "Walcutt has modelled 
and cast in plaster two smaller statues, the Sailor Boy and the 
Midshipman, which, when cut in marble, are to be placed as 
side figures to the Perry Monument, in completion of its original 
design. The Sailor Boy and Midshipman have been pronounced 
by all who liaA^e seen them as truly beautiful, life-like, and 
eminently American in their character. 

Mr. Walcutt's statues differ entirely in their style and ex- 
pression from the classic models of the old world, and yet they 
seem to be as classical, and to evince as high a degree of the 
ideal, while the difference consists mainly in the fact, that they 
belong to different civilizations. Mr. Walcutt's style is strictly 
American, and his statues could not have been produced by any 
body but an American. No American has succeeded so well 
as he, it is believed, in giving expression to American character. 
He may therefore be regarded as having founded a new school 
in sculpture, which is destined to be known in the history of art 
as the American school. 

We predict for Mr. Walcutt a brilliant future. He is still 
young, and resides for the present at Cleveland, where he 
designed and executed his first great Avork, demonstrating to 
the w^orld that in matters of art, as well as in population, 
"Westward the Star of Empire takes its way." 

In confirmation of the merits of Mr. W^alcutt, as a man, 
and as an Artist, "Harper's W^eekly," in an editorial notice of 
him, says: — "We publish herewith a portrait of Mr. William 
Walcutt, the sculptor of the Perry Monument, of which we 
publish an engraving on another page. Mr. Walcutt's modesty 



128 

is sucli that we are only able to say of him, that he was born at 
Columbus, Ohio, and that he studied in Europe. His work, 
however, which is one of the finest monuments in the country, 
speaks so eloquently for him that nothing further is needed." 

Frank Leslie, in his "Illustrated Newspaper," speaks of Mr, 
Walcutt, as follows : — "The desis;ner of the Perrv Monument, 
W. "Walcutt, is well known to a large circle of our citizens. 
The earliest beginning of his art life was spent in our midst. 
His power was first recognized through the medium of the New 
York Sketch Club, an institution which should never have been 
allowed to decline, where his masterly outline drawings attracted 
marked attention and warm praise. In them he displayed a 
power and an individuality upon which a future brilliant career 
could be reasonably predicted. He left New York to study in 
Europe, purposing to perfect himself as a portrait and historical 
painter. How or when he discovered the true bent of his genius 
we do not know, but within a year or two we hear the world 
busy with his name as a sculptor of high and original merit. 

As a man, William Walcutt was universally popular in 
art circles in this city. Amiable, kind hearted and modest to 
a degree almost painful, he won upon the sympathies of all, 
until esteem grew into love. We can bear testimony to the 
endearing Cjualities of his nature, and we know that his well 
deserved success will be a source of unqualified delight to all 
who know him, and especially to those who companioned him 
in the struggle to art distinction, which he has now won by the 
force of his inborn genius." 



Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process. 
Neutralizing agent: Magnesium Oxide 
Treatment Date: May 2010 

PreservationTechnologies 

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